Side Chair (part of a set) c. 1885

This Side Chair, part of a set, crafted by Louis Comfort Tiffany around the turn of the century, presents a fascinating blend of simplicity and subtle symbolism. Note the rectilinear form and unadorned leather, a deliberate choice to evoke rustic simplicity. The choice of leather, secured with studs, evokes primal associations of strength and endurance, qualities deeply embedded in the collective memory of craftsmanship, recalling ancient times when practical objects were infused with symbolic meaning. In classical antiquity, leather was similarly used in saddles, harnesses, or even as protective armor for soldiers. Leather’s connection with primal concepts of warmth, protection, and utility resonates on a subconscious level, influencing our perception. The choice of these motifs and the simple construction represent Tiffany's response to the rising industrial age and a longing for authenticity in the face of mass production. They reflect a non-linear, cyclical progression, resurfacing and evolving in different historical contexts.