Syrian walnut armchair – late 19th century

This Syrian armchair displays a sculptural presence that immediately draws the eye. Its structure, made of solid walnut, dense and finely crafted, serves as a setting for a rich decor where every centimetre seems animated by the artisan's hand. The openwork backrest, featuring a medallion at its centre, concentrates light on its mother-of-pearl inlays, whose iridescent reflections change depending on the angle of view. Stylised floral patterns and Eastern geometries are visible, cut with almost jewel-like precision. The curved legs, crossing in an X to form a curule seat, give the armchair an almost calligraphic appearance. Their movement evokes a fluid gesture frozen in wood, while the surfaces are rhythmically adorned with light fillets and sculpted arabesques in bas-relief. The whole creates a subtle dialogue between the density of the decor and the lightness of the silhouette. This piece reflects the heritage of the Syrian workshops in Damascus or Aleppo, where marquetry and inlay are elevated to the status of a major art form. The armchair is not just a seat: it is an object of display, designed to enhance an interior and testify to a craftsmanship passed down through generations. It embodies an aesthetic where ornament becomes language, symbol, and memory. Period: Late 19th century. Excellent condition after restoration in our workshop. Waxed finish.