Vintage from the Mid-20th Century – Handcrafted Statement Seating – Rare Find

Indian Colonial-Style Hardwood Chair with Brass Panels & Studwork

Origin:

A striking vintage Indian hardwood armchair crafted in the mid-20th century, inspired by traditional Indian and Anglo-Indian colonial furniture design. Chairs of this type were traditionally handmade using solid hardwood frames and richly detailed brass cladding, often commissioned for grand residences, clubs, or institutional interiors during the late colonial and post-colonial periods.

This piece features a sculptural hardwood structure with gracefully curved arms and legs, complemented by hand-hammered brass panels arranged in a geometric grid across the backrest. The brass is further accented with raised stud detailing and decorative borders, reflecting skilled metalwork traditions rooted in Indian craftsmanship.

Comparable examples can be found in reputable antique dealers and archives, including Selling Antiques, Antiques Atlas, L&T Antiques, and Vinterior, where similar chairs are attributed to Indian workshops known for blending functional seating with ornamental metalwork.

Condition:

The chair is in very good vintage condition, showing authentic signs of age and use consistent with mid-20th-century handcrafted furniture.
The hardwood frame remains structurally solid and stable. The brass panels display a warm, aged patina with light surface wear and tonal variation, enhancing the character of the piece rather than detracting from it. Minor marks and wear to the wood are present, typical of vintage use, with no major damage or repairs observed.

Overall, the chair presents beautifully and retains its bold visual presence and craftsmanship.

Size:

• Height: 94 cm
• Width: 58 cm
• Depth: 47-57 cm

Details:

This chair is distinguished by its architectural silhouette and richly textured materials. The combination of dark hardwood and golden brass creates a powerful contrast, while the repeating diamond motifs and studded detailing add rhythm and depth to the design.

The curved arms and solid seat provide both comfort and sculptural appeal, making the piece suitable as a functional armchair or a decorative accent. Its aesthetic bridges traditional Indian craftsmanship with a bold, almost brutalist presence, allowing it to stand confidently in both eclectic and curated interiors.

Perfect for:

• Collectors of Indian and colonial-era furniture
• Statement seating for living rooms, studies, or entry halls
• Boutique hotels, lounges, or styled commercial spaces
• Eclectic, global, or maximalist interiors
• Film sets, editorial shoots, and curated design projects