Stoel 1850 - 1860

This chair was made by Pierre Cuypers, likely at the end of the 19th century. It’s crafted from oak, with an upholstered seat covered in textile. The oak is worked to evoke a Gothic feel, with pointed arches and quatrefoil motifs, likely using a combination of hand-carving and machine production. This blending of handcraft and industrial processes was typical of the period, reflecting a desire to connect with historical styles while still embracing modern efficiency. The choice of oak, a sturdy and traditional material, adds to the chair’s sense of solidity and permanence. The upholstery, with its warm, patterned fabric, provides a comfortable contrast to the hard wood. Cuypers' design reflects a broader social and cultural context. It speaks to the era’s fascination with the past, combined with new methods of production, and invites us to consider the relationship between tradition and modernity, as expressed in this everyday object. It blurs the boundary between design and craft, while hinting at the rise of industrialization.