Armchair 1867 - 1875

These opulent armchairs were crafted by Pottier and Stymus Manufacturing Company sometime between 1859 and 1910, embodying the eclectic spirit of the late 19th century. Note the prominent use of the sphinx motif adorning each arm. This ancient Egyptian symbol, representing wisdom and guardianship, experienced a resurgence in popularity during the Neoclassical and Victorian periods, often appearing in architecture and decorative arts. The sphinx, with its human head and feline body, is a powerful image that transcends time. We see echoes of it in ancient Greek mythology and Renaissance art. The human element combined with the animal reflects the duality of human nature: intellect and instinct. Consider how the sphinx, originally a symbol of royal power and divine protection in Egypt, transformed over centuries, embodying different cultural anxieties and aspirations. Its continued reappearance speaks to our collective fascination with the mysteries of existence, an enduring presence in our cultural memory. These armchairs serve not only as functional objects but also as potent symbols.