Western Americana, Antiques & Furnishings Auction Closed (#26704717)

Back To Catalog

Terms & Conditions

This Auction Uses Proxy Bidding.

Lot # C138

French Gothic Revival Prayer Chair, Ca. 1870, Ebonized & Needlepoint View Watchlist >

View All Images (13)

Ended

Winning Bid: $420.00
56 Bid(s) View Bid History
High Bidder: Candace

Payment Options

Seller Accepts Credit Cards

Payment and pickup instructions will be available on your invoice (under "My Account") at the conclusion of this auction.

Lot # C138
System ID # 26834346

Start Date
End Date

1 Watching

Bid/Purchase History >

Description

French Gothic Revival Prayer Chair, Ca. 1870, Ebonized & Needlepoint

French Gothic Revival prie-dieu (prayer chair), circa 1870, finely crafted with an ebonized wood frame featuring turned supports and a pierced backrest of pointed Gothic arches centered by a carved cross. The original hand-stitched needlepoint upholstery remains on both the kneeler and armrest, intricately worked with floral garlands and a central cross motif—an emblem of late 19th-century devotional artistry.

Chairs of this type were common in private chapels and domestic oratories of the period, reflecting the renewed interest in medieval ecclesiastical design during the French Gothic Revival. The combination of architectural tracery, foliate carving, and rich textile work speaks to both the spiritual and aesthetic refinement of the era. A striking example for collectors of antique French or religious furnishings.

Condition

Structurally sound overall. Original needlepoint upholstery exhibits extensive wear, thread loss, and fading; separation visible, particularly on the seat. The ebonized finish shows scuffing, surface wear, and minor paint losses consistent with age. Original tacks and webbing remain intact.