Armchair from a pair of armchairs 1835

This armchair is one of a pair made by Filippo Pelagio Palagi, a prominent artist in 19th-century Italy. Palagi’s armchair embodies the 19th-century fascination with historical styles, drawing inspiration from ancient Greece and Rome. Note the carved details, the symmetrical design, and the classical motifs. Made during a time of political and social upheaval in Italy, these armchairs reflect a desire to connect with a glorious past, a strategy often employed by those in power to legitimize their rule. The neoclassical style was popular among the European elite, who used it to project an image of sophistication and authority. Palagi's role as an artist working for wealthy patrons raises questions about the social function of art. To better understand the cultural context of this armchair, one might investigate the history of design and decorative arts, the social history of 19th-century Italy, and the patronage system that supported artists like Palagi. These chairs provide insight into the tastes and values of a particular social class.