Bidspirit auction | R.J. Horner Figural Carved Barrel-Form

R.J. Horner Figural Carved Barrel-Form Chair, Late 19th Century - A richly carved American barrel-form chair attributed to the workshop of R.J. Horner, executed in dark-stained hardwood and featuring bold, high-relief figural decoration. The arms are formed as stylized classical female busts emerging from foliate supports, displaying Horner’s signature theatrical and sculptural approach to furniture design. The rounded back is surmounted by a carved crest with scrolling ornament, while the body retains its original barrel form with tufted interior back. Raised on carved paw feet, the chair embodies the dramatic Renaissance Revival aesthetic associated with Horner’s late 19th-century production. Upholstered in velvet. 33 in. H, 27 in. W, 24 in. D, 13 in. seat height Condition: Upholstery in extremely worn condition with visible fabric loss, tearing, and fraying particularly at the seat edge and side panels. Needs replacement. Surface wear, scuffs, and minor abrasions to wood consistent with age and use. Structurally sound overall with expected age-related wear.