Pair of side chairs 1719 - 1741

These side chairs, crafted by Thomas How, feature potent symbols of power and heritage. The most striking is the heraldic crest emblazoned on the back, a tradition stretching back to medieval Europe, where coats of arms served as visual representations of family lineage, status, and allegiance. Consider the lion, a recurring motif in heraldry—a symbol of courage, nobility, and royalty. Lions appear in various forms across cultures and times, from ancient Mesopotamian art to Renaissance sculptures. This symbol transcends mere representation; it evokes a visceral connection to primal strength, resonating within our collective unconscious. Notice how the chair's ornate carvings and embellishments convey status. These details engage viewers on a deep, subconscious level; they appeal to our innate desire for beauty and order, evoking feelings of admiration and reverence. The cyclical progression of symbols such as the heraldic crest, lion and fleur-de-lis, persist through centuries, evolving and resurfacing in new forms, reflecting society's shifting values and concerns.