Walnut Stool (Sgabello), Carved and Gilded

Italian 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

This is a photograph of an ornate wooden chair. The chair has intricate carvings and design elements throughout its structure. The backrest is detailed with scrollwork and central shields or cartouches framed by foliage designs. The seat is simple and flat, resting upon a similarly detailed base that continues the decorative motifs of scrolls and acanthus leaves. The chair appears to be made of dark wood, possibly enhanced with gold or gilded accents. The craftsmanship suggests it is an ornamental piece, possibly intended for decorative purposes as much as for utility.