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Classical Roman Armchairs

CLASSICAL ROMAN STYLE

During Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 A.D., Pompeii and Herculaneum in today’s Italy were preserved as they were on the day of their destruction. Particularly at Herculaneum, furnishings were carbonized beneath volcanic ash. This was pivotal to understanding how Classical Roman furniture was designed. Archaeological investigations and printed reproductions of discoveries would influence styles evoking this ancient civilization, from the Renaissance to neoclassicism.

While knowledge of Classical Roman furniture comes from rare surviving pieces, it is also derived from frescoes and sculptures portraying Roman life. Much of Roman art, architecture and design was informed by Greece — Roman architect, military engineer and writer Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, whose timeless De architectura is taught in contemporary architecture classes and pays tribute to classical architecture, visited Greece while working under Julius Caesar and admired the country’s architectural developments. The Roman solium references the Greek thronos, a stately chair of honor with an upright form and footstool. As the Roman Empire spread across Europe and into North Africa and Western Asia, the expansion of trade for silver, silk, marble and wood allowed for more luxurious designs.

Classical Roman furniture was made from bronze, wood and stone — in particular, marble — with ornate touches like tortoiseshell veneers, bone and glass inlays and claw feet. Ornaments depicting lion heads and mythological figures were sculpted from silver, bronze and ivory. Compared to the decorative attention given to the mosaic floors and wall paintings, however, furniture for even a wealthy house was minimal. It focused on the necessities for guests arriving for both socializing and business and the rooms housing family, relatives and enslaved people.

The triclinium dining room had banquet couches, items so prized they were sometimes interred with the deceased. Tall bronze or terracotta candelabras held oil lamps for lighting. Carved marble tables reflected status, while the lararium home shrine demonstrated faith.

Find a collection of Classical Roman decorative objects, tables, seating and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Classical Roman
Pair of Bronze and Iron X Scissor Armchairs, by David Marshall
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of bronze and iron Dante curule armchairs, by David Marshall X or scissors Roman inspired chair in iron and bronze, not foldable Seat is slightly curved made of thick and robust...
Category

1980s Spanish Vintage Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Bronze, Iron

Italian Curule Armchair
Located in Woodbury, CT
Iron, brass and leather curule armchair. Originally meant for Roman magistrates, this version features tooled and gilded leather on an iron frame with ...
Category

Early 20th Century British Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Brass, Wrought Iron

Set of Eight Italian Steel and Leather Curule Chairs
By Dante Savonarola
Located in Stamford, CT
Set of 8 mid-20th century Italian Savonarola curule brass and steel armchairs with leather seat and back rest. They can be purchased as pairs for $4000. Each chair has four brass bal...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Brass, Steel

Very Comfortable Sheepskin Leather Armchair in a Beautiful Dark Warm Color
Located in Harderwijk, NL
For those who want to relax in classic charm and comfort, this sheepskin leather armchair is the perfect addition. Its stunning dark warm color and buttoned backrest give it the belo...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Vintage 1950s Dutch design rattan armchair with beautiful organic shapes
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This rattan armchair boasts an elegant design and can be easily styled with a cushion or a sheepskin, for example. The chair fits effortlessly into almost any interior, and not only ...
Category

1950s Vintage Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Rattan

Mid Century Sculptural Neoclassical Style Iron Column Side or Accent Chair
Located in Lambertville, NJ
Sculptural Neoclassical style Roman column form iron accent armchair with decorative scrolls and flared cabriolet legs. This stylized chair makes a perfect accent or desk chair. To...
Category

1970s Vintage Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Metal, Iron

English Classic Tufted Club Chair
Located in Westwood, NJ
An English Classic tufted club chair. This chair has a Classic Silhouette and features all-over tufting. It has a tight tufted seat a...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Upholstery

Comfortable Characteristic Sheepskin Leather Armchair with a Stunning Patina
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This amazing armchair has developed a beautiful patina over the years, as is typical for sheepskin leather. It is full of character and, thanks to its lovely cognac color, has a time...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Armchair Made of Sheepskin Leather
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Offered here is this elegant and stately armchair made of sheepskin leather, offering excellent seating comfort. This wonderful armchair has, as is typical for sheepskin leather, de...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Vintage Leather Design Armchair by De Sede, Model DS50
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Offered here this Swiss 1970s vintage leather design armchair by the beloved brand De Sede, model DS50. This timeless design classic from the top Swiss brand De Sede fits beautiful...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather

Set of 2 Comfortable Sheepskin Leather Armchairs with a Beautiful Patina
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This fantastic set of two sheepskin leather armchairs effortlessly fits into nearly any interior. Their rich, deep warm tones and sleek finish give these armchairs a stately and char...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Set of 2 Large, Comfortable Vintage Sheepskin Leather Armchairs
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This set of two stunning sheepskin leather armchairs fits effortlessly into almost any interior. With their elegant shapes and beautifully aged patina, these vintage chairs exude cha...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Comfortable Cognac-Colored Sheepskin Leather Armchair with Straight Lines
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This fantastic sheepskin leather armchair is a true eye-catcher that, if you ask us, should not be missing in any interior. It features straight, sleek lines and a stunning cognac co...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Comfortable and stylish vintage sheepskin leather armchair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This amazing sheepskin leather armchair can easily fit into almost any interior. With its straight lines and beautiful patina, this vintage armchair has a characteristic and stylish ...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Charming and Characterful Subtly Patinated Sheepskin Leather Armchair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This charming and subtle sheepskin leather armchair is full of character and features lovely details. It is a timeless gem that will feel at home in almost any interior. The armchair...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Complete Set Sheepskin Leather Art Deco Design 2-Seater Sofa and 2 Armchairs
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Offered here is this fantastic complete set of sheepskin leather Art Deco design furniture, consisting of a 2-seater sofa and two matching armchairs. A unique opportunity for true en...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin, Wood

Cowhide Leather Designer Armchair in Light Cognac Color
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Offered here is this stunning, sleekly shaped designer armchair crafted from cowhide leather in a light cognac color. This comfortable and timeless cowhide leather armchair is a wo...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather

Luxury Black Grained Cowhide Leather Armchair with Deep Seat
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Are you looking for the perfect stylish spot to relax after a long day? Then this cowhideleather armchair is just for you! Its deep black color, decorative nailhead trim, and elegant...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather

Comfortable Vintage Sheepskin Leather Club Chair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This irresistible vintage club chair is a true eye-catcher. Made from cognac-colored sheepskin leather, it is full of character. The chair is finished with black trim and features a ...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Set of 2 Large Dark Cowhide Leather Chesterfield Armchairs
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Do you love the charm of Chesterfield furniture but prefer a smooth finish without deep button tufting? Then this set of two large smooth leather armchairs is exactly what you're loo...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather

Green Cowhide Leather and Wooden Vintage Design Armchair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This green cowhide leather design armchair from the 1960s is a fantastic eye-catcher that fits seamlessly into almost any interior. It is the Lotus 1611 model, designed by Rob Parry ...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather, Wood

Green Vintage Cowhide Leather English Chesterfield Armchair Combined with Wood
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This vintage leather Chesterfield armchair exudes the beloved timeless English class and style. It features a graceful design, a bold green color scheme, and is neatly finished with ...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather

Cognac-Colored, Characterful Vintage Sheepskin Leather Club Chair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This stunning vintage sheepskin leather club chair is a true eye-catcher that deserves a place in any interior. With its warm cognac color and rich character, it exudes charm and ele...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Cognac-Colored Vintage Sheepskin Leather Armchair with a High Back
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This fantastic sheepskin leather armchair should, in our opinion, be a part of every interior. It features a beautiful cognac color and a striking appearance. The armchair is beautif...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Characterful sheepskin club armchair with a proper finish with decorative nails
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Are you looking for a subtle, timeless gem that will fit perfectly into almost any interior? Look no further! This sheepskin club armchair is a fantastic addition for you. It has a s...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Sturdy Cognac-Colored Sheepskin Leather Club Chair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This fantastic cognac-colored sheepskin leather club chair fits seamlessly into almost any interior. It features precise craftsmanship with decorative nails and boasts a timeless, st...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Comfortable Cowhide Leather Armchair with Deep Warm Colors
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This incredibly beautiful full-grain leather armchair is a feast for the eyes and will fit seamlessly into almost any interior. Its deep, warm colors and stunning patina give it a bo...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather

Set of 2 Green Vintage Leather English Chesterfield Armchairs Combined with Wood
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This set of two vintage cowhide leather Chesterfield armchairs exudes the beloved timeless English class and style. They feature a graceful design, a bold green color, and are beauti...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather, Wood

Classic Dark Brown Sheepskin Leather Design Armchair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Offered here is this beautiful and well-preserved classic dark brown sheepskin leather design armchair. This timeless piece is not only a delight to look at, but also offers superb...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Black Cowhide Leather Aviator Armchair with a Sleek Design and Stylish Shape
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This rugged cowhide leather design armchair is a true eye-catcher with its stylish shape and sleek design. Don't miss your chance to bring this unique gem into your home! It feature...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather

Large Dark Cowhide Leather English-Style Chesterfield Armchair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
Are you drawn to the charm of English-style Chesterfield furniture but prefer a design without deep button tufting? Then this is exactly what you’re looking for! This large smooth co...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather

Comfortable Sheepskin Leather Armchair with a Beautiful Patina
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This fantastic sheepskin leather armchair fits effortlessly into almost any interior. Its rich, deep warm tones and sleek finish give this armchair a stately and characterful appeara...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Green Cowhide Leather and Wooden Vintage Design Armchair
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This green leather design armchair from the 1960s is a fantastic eye-catcher that will fit seamlessly into almost any interior. It is the Lotus 1611 model by Rob Parry for Gelderland...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Cowhide, Leather, Wood

Timeless Sheepskin Leather Armchair in Excellent Condition
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This wonderful sheepskin leather armchair is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Who could possibly resist it? We certainly can't! With its beautiful warm tones and clean,...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Sturdy Cognac-Colored Sheepskin Leather Club Armchair with Fine Detailing
Located in Harderwijk, NL
This fantastic cognac-colored sheepskin leather club armchair effortlessly fits into almost any interior. It features fine detailing with decorative nails and exudes a timeless yet s...
Category

20th Century Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Sheepskin

Original Flemish Armchair in Elm, 18th Century
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Original Flemish armchair in elm, 18th century.   
Category

18th Century French Antique Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Elm

Pair of Neo-Renaissance Armchairs, circa 1900
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Pair of neo-Renaissance armchairs, circa 1900. Oak and leather.
Category

Early 1900s Belgian Antique Classical Roman Armchairs

Materials

Oak

Classical Roman armchairs for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Classical Roman armchairs for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage armchairs created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include seating, building and garden elements and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with metal, animal skin and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Classical Roman armchairs made in a specific country, there are Europe, North America, and Belgium pieces for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for armchairs differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $800 and tops out at $16,000 while the average work can sell for $3,133.

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