Side chair (sgabello a dorsale)

Art Historical Context

This elegant walnut side chair, known as a sgabello a dorsale, exemplifies late 19th-century Italian furniture making from the regions of Bolzano or Milan. Crafted by Alois Überacher in collaboration with Fratelli Mora, the piece revives a historic Italian form characterized by its tall, narrow profile and distinctive backrest. Standing nearly a meter high, its compact dimensions of 49 cm wide and 39.4 cm deep make it both functional and sculptural, suited for formal interiors of the period. Walnut was prized in Italian woodwork for its rich grain and durability, allowing artisans to achieve fine carving and smooth finishes that highlight the wood’s natural beauty. As part of the Robert Lehman Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, this chair reflects the 19th-century interest in Renaissance-inspired designs, blending traditional craftsmanship with the refined tastes of collectors like Lehman. Its presence in the museum’s Woodwork-Furniture holdings underscores the enduring appeal of Italian decorative arts, offering visitors a glimpse into the skilled techniques and cultural heritage preserved through such works.

About the Artist

Alois Überacher|Fratelli Mora ( | ) · | – |

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