20th Century Italian Savonarola Folding Chairs

35 1/2”H x 27”W x 20 1/2”D

Seat: 18 1/4”H x 12 1/4”D x 10”W

A comfortable chair of elegant design. Great bottom and back support. A curule frame, of Roman design, with two arms finished in a ball-form handholds with decorative captured rings. Chair can easily fold for storage. A beautiful statement chair left folded or open. Versatile piece. The original camping stool. Noted for its uses in Ancient Rome and Europe through to the 20th century. In fantastic condition. Some minor wear and loss to wood due to age. Great patina.

Sold Separately. Two available.

The Savonarola was given the name in the 19th century, after Girolamo Savonarola, an Italian priest in Florence from 1494 to 1498. He preached against the excesses of the people, predicted the Last Days and organized the Bonfire of the Vanities in 1497. Mirrors, cosmetics, immoral sculptures, gaming tables, musical instruments, fine clothes and artwork were burned in a huge fire in the main square. When the Last Days didn't come, his followers revolted, he was excommunicated and then, in 1498, he was executed. None of this has anything to do with the X-shaped chair that was given his name. 

Maybe the Savonarola was given the name due to the scissor form relating to the execution of Girolamo Savonarola? We will never know.

Early 20th Century

Italy