Armchair 1832 - 1835

This armchair was crafted by Duncan Phyfe, a master of the neoclassical style. Observe the chair's delicate lyre motif at its center, a symbol deeply rooted in classical antiquity. The lyre, associated with Apollo, embodies harmony and refinement. The lyre motif appears throughout Greek and Roman art, symbolizing culture and civilization. Its presence here suggests an aspiration to connect with the grandeur of the ancient world. The chair's elegant curves evoke a sense of fluidity and grace, reminiscent of classical sculpture. It embodies a psychological desire for order and beauty, mirroring a longing for a return to classical ideals. Notice how the lyre’s form has evolved—from its sacred origins to its adaptation in furniture design, this motif exemplifies how cultural symbols endure, adapting to new contexts while retaining echoes of their original meaning. This journey through time reveals the symbol's power to evoke a sense of history and cultural continuity.