The Caduceus Decorated Recency chair is one of the few chosen from Classic Chairs’ collection of Historical Furniture. It dates from the beginning of the 19th century in England.
It is a very striking and unusual chair.
The carving and the decoration reflected the very popular neo-Classical theme. This fashion was sweeping through interior and architectural design during Regency times, partly as a reaction against the baroque, and also as a result of all the exciting new archaeological discoveries in Asia Minor, Greece and Italy.
The back is carved with the symbol of the staff carried by Hermes, a God from Greek mythology. The same staff was also borne by heralds in general, for example by Iris, the messenger of Hera. It is a short staff entwined by two serpents, sometimes surmounted by wings. In Roman iconography, it was often depicted being carried in the left hand of Mercury, the messenger of the gods.
In modern times the caduceus was taken up as the symbol for all doctors and physicians.
The top has gilded figures of winged lions. These were most probably copied from engravings and sketches of pottery decoration sent back from excavations, especially at Pompei in the second half of the 18th century.
The Caduceus Decorated Regency Chair has parcel-gilt detailing, notably stars to the front seat rail, along with palm leaves and gilded rings to accentuate the turned legs.
*As with all caned seats, the chair should be used with a squab cushion.
