Antique Chaise Longue, c. 1870 — Restoration with Visible Craftsmanship

Rather than hiding the craftsmanship inside this nineteenth-century chaise longue, I chose to celebrate it. Many antique seating pieces are restored by concealing their construction beneath layers of foam and fabric. During the restoration of this chaise longue, I chose a different approach. Dating from around 1870, this elegant piece still carries the remarkable craftsmanship of its original maker. Rather than disguising its construction, the restoration deliberately reveals part of its inner structure. The hand-built wooden frame, traditional upholstery techniques and newly installed blue webbing become part of the design itself, offering a rare glimpse into nineteenth-century furniture making. The seat has been completely rebuilt where necessary using traditional upholstery methods. The upholstery is finished in a durable and luxury fabric by Kobe, selected to complement both the historic timber and the visible construction. Every intervention was carried out with respect for the original proportions and character of the piece while allowing its craftsmanship to become visible once again. The result is a functional chaise longue that sits somewhere between antique furniture, restoration and contemporary design. A unique object that not only invites use, but also tells the story of how furniture was once made. Created in my upholstery workshop in Maastricht, this piece reflects my ongoing exploration of "soft interventions": giving overlooked furniture a new future through craftsmanship, materiality and thoughtful reinterpretation rather than imitation. Details. Antique chaise longue, circa 1870. Traditional wooden frame. Partially exposed internal construction. Newly rebuilt upholstery using traditional methods. Upholstered in premium Kobe furniture fabric. One-of-a-kind restored piece. Excellent structural condition with age-appropriate patina on the wooden frame. Worldwide shipping available through Selency.