A Chinoiserie side chair from England, circa 1850–1880, formed in lacquered papier-mâché and decorated with hand-painted gilt ornament and extensive mother-of-pearl inlay. The shaped back features a stylized flowering branch rendered in shell and gold against a black lacquer ground, with additional gilt detailing throughout the frame. The surface shows age-appropriate craquelure consistent with period examples. The seat has been reupholstered and is supported by a traditional caned understructure. Raised on cabriole legs with further painted decoration.
Papier-mâché furniture of this type was produced in mid-19th century England during the height of the Chinoiserie revival, using molded forms to achieve intricate decorative surfaces not possible in carved wood.
Dimensions:
W: 19″
D: 22″
H: 34″
Seat Height: 17″
