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Hoffmans Antiques

Pair of Gustavian armchairs
Ephraim Ståhl (Sweden, 1768-1820)
Parcel gilt and bronzed wood
Stockholm, circa 1810
H 85 x W 63 x D 50 cm

Each armchair has a scrolled back and armrests decorated with carved laurels. The side rails are adorned with griffin heads and a palmette frieze; the fluted, tapered front legs with leaf-tip carvings. The sabre-shaped back legs end in lion's paw feet.

The pair of armchairs is attributed to Ephraim Ståhl and made around 1805. Ephraim Ståhl a renowned Swedish craftsman who was a prominent furniture maker from the late 18th century to the early 19th century. Known for the high quality of his work and as well his bold, innovative designs. Ståhl became a favorite of the Swedish Royal family, with his pieces featured in nearly every royal castle.

This model however featuring griffins beneath the armrests, is one of Ståhl’s more unusual designs, rarely seen on the open market. It was likely a special commission, possibly by Duke Karl, the brother of Gustav III, who had a particular fondness for the griffin motif, incorporating it throughout the interiors of Rosersberg Castle.