Object of the Day: An Unusual Aesthetic Movement Footstool

When we think of the Nineteenth Century European Aesthetic Movement, we tend to envision ebonized furniture with gilt details and chinoiserie overtones. We also are immediately put in mind of ornamentation derived from natural phenomenon such as peacock feathers and ferns. However, not all Aesthetic Movement furnishings were ebonized. Many later Aesthetic Movement pieces were stained maple—still decorated with naturally-inspired designs, but, in large part carved as opposed to painted.


Such is the case of this walnut footstool. With its highly stylized curving lines, this piece of furniture is reminiscent of Rococo Revival ideals of organic shape, and hints at the influence of Eastlake style in its coloring. However, the carved ornamentation of abstract foliage and central ovoid medallions which remind us of peacock feathers, firmly place this piece in the late English Aesthetic movement.

The red damask upholstery is a Twentieth Century addition. The stool is still padded with horsehair and the original upholstery of claret-covered mohair (in rather shabby condition) remains beneath the new covering. As is the case with most Aesthetic Movement furnishings, this piece blends stylistically with furniture from almost any era. Since coming to this house in 2001, this footstool has been the companion of a Rococo chair, a Louis XVI Slipper Chair, and a contemporary club chair without any problems fitting in. Today, it is tucked under my desk, providing much relief to an author with bad feet. Attractive and proud, it’s still content to serve its original purpose.