Italian, Central Italy
Low Chair (Sedia bassa), 17th century
Walnut, white poplar, and pine, 81 x 46.2 x 38 cm (31 7/8 x 18 3/16 x 14 15/16 in.)
This low chair has carved foliate finials resting on the tops of straight, square back posts. A highly carved top rail, featuring a central blank cartouche with surrounding scrolls and leaves, is connected to the simply curved mid rail by five slightly curving posts. The square seat is upholstered in brown leather, studded around the edge with circular metal pieces, and decorated with long, gold fringe. The carved legs stand on ball feet and are connected by simple scalloped stretchers.
Gothic Room
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.