History of the Savonarola Chair
X chairs, so named for their crossed legs, appeared some 4,000 years ago in Egypt and folding versions were used throughout the Roman Empire. In the middle ages when X chairs were used by kings and high ranking church officials, the X structure became a symbol of authority. During the Renaissance, particularly in Italy and southern France, X chairs were updated for use in homes.
The Savonarola chair, named for a 15th-century Dominican cleric, is distinctive for the elaborate curve of the X, which gives the illusion that each side is made from a single piece. It was a staple of design in mid-16th-century France and enjoyed popularity again during the 19th and early 20th century revival of gothic and Renaissance designs. While perhaps appearing delicate, these chairs are not only sturdy but comfortable owing to their proven design and their construction from solid wood.
Brescia is a province in the region of Lombardy, Italy. This region is celebrated for its violin makers and other fine woodworkers.