Antique Chaise Longue, circa 1870 — Restoration with Visible Craftsmanship

Rather than hiding the craftsmanship within this 19th-century chaise longue, I chose to celebrate it. Many antique seats are restored by concealing their construction under layers of foam and fabric. In restoring this chaise longue, I opted for a different approach. Dating from around 1870, this elegant piece still showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of its original creator. Rather than disguising its construction, the restoration deliberately reveals part of its internal structure. The handmade wooden frame, traditional upholstery techniques, and the newly installed blue webbing are integral to the design, offering a rare insight into furniture making in the 19th century. The seat has been completely reconstructed where necessary using traditional upholstery methods. The upholstery is finished in a luxurious and durable fabric from Kobe, selected to complement both the historic wood and the visible construction. Each intervention has been carried out with respect for the original proportions and character of the piece while allowing its craftsmanship to become visible 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 "gentle interventions": giving a new future to neglected furniture through craftsmanship, materiality, and thoughtful reinterpretation rather than imitation. Details. Antique chaise longue, circa 1870. Traditional wooden frame. Partially exposed internal construction. Recently reconstructed upholstery using traditional methods. Upholstered in premium furniture fabric from Kobe. One-of-a-kind restored piece. Excellent structural condition with appropriate age patina on the wooden frame. Worldwide shipping available via Selency.