Italian Savonarola Chair

This Italian Savonarola Chair is the oldest single piece in my collection other then some early American Arrowheads and pottery. I brought this chair in the early 80's from a friend whom had owned it for over 60 years. She could tell me very little about it other then the lady she obtained it from was quite well off and had received if from a older family member upon their passing. She in turn gave it away to my friend Kathleen. The chair is made of Walnut and is nicely carved due to it age it has quit a few scars and scratches. I do not set in it anymore and it only job is to set in my room by my bed and hold a clothing item that is thrown on it once in a while. The chair has 14 Walnut struts or rungs which are tied together with 4 small iron rods, which a crudely threaded and a some what square nut holds the rod in place. (See photo 4) On the end of both arms of the chair there is a small wood ring just behind the arm cap. This wood ring was used to help pass the time by the setter who could spin it at will. No TV or Radio had to have something to do. The craftsmanship is outstanding in the carving and if you look very close you can see the marks of the cutting tool. The chair still folds up like it was designed to do and it is very easy to move and store. Hardbrake