Hip-joint armchair (sillón de cadera or jamuga)
The form of this chair is derived from the ancient Greco-Roman faldistorium, an armless folding chair used by high-ranking officials when not occupying their thrones of office. Although the present chair also appears to be collapsible for easy transport, its X frame is not constructed to permit this. Clearly, the form has been retained to evoke its traditional ceremonial aspect.
The use of such chairs persisted around the Mediterranean throughout the Middle Ages. In Spain, converted Muslims continued to produce them after the Catholic reconquest, employing the skillful style of inlay practiced under earlier Islamic rule. The conquistadors carried similar chairs to the Americas, where they functioned as emblems of authority. The plain velvet on this example is a replacement of the original, most likely very elaborate, upholstry.
The use of such chairs persisted around the Mediterranean throughout the Middle Ages. In Spain, converted Muslims continued to produce them after the Catholic reconquest, employing the skillful style of inlay practiced under earlier Islamic rule. The conquistadors carried similar chairs to the Americas, where they functioned as emblems of authority. The plain velvet on this example is a replacement of the original, most likely very elaborate, upholstry.
Artwork Details
- Title: Hip-joint armchair (sillón de cadera or jamuga)
- Date: ca. 1480–1500
- Culture: Spanish, Granada
- Medium: Walnut and elm, partly veneered and inlaid with different woods, ivory, bone (camel?) and pewter; covered in silk velvet not original to the armchair
- Dimensions: h. 36 1/2 x w. 24 x d. 19 1/2 in. (92.7 x 61 x 49.5 cm)
- Classification: Woodwork-Furniture
- Credit Line: Fletcher Fund, 1945
- Object Number: 45.60.41a, b
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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Spanish, Granada
ca. 1500
Workshop of Giuliano da Maiano (1432–1490) and Benedetto da Maiano (1442–1497)
ca. 1489–91
Spanish, Granada
late 15th century
Multiple artists/makers
ca. 1547–48
Francesco Orlandini
1547
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