Mariposa Sofa

A stupendous Naturalistic-style ‘mariposa’ sofa

 

Estimate: PHP 280,000 - 300,000

 

Early 20th century

Ilocos

Narra, cane or solihiya

111 x 207 x 77 cm (43 1/2 x 81 1/2 x 30 in)

 

This is one remarkable ‘Mariposa’ sofa. Popular in the latter part of the 19th century, this is a superb and exemplary piece of furniture. The carver placed particular care and attention to the intricacy and details of all the carvings. Rococo elements are juxtaposed with naturalistic elements to create a tapestry of celebration and bounty. The top frame boasts manually twisted stiles, splat links, arms and arm supports. The triple shield-shaped splats have on its rails and crests scrolls, interlacing ribbon, tobacco flowers and leaves (tobacco has always been associated with the province), and on the corners are roosters next to palay grains. Airy solihiya weaving cover the seat, splats and sides, and the apron below has highly detailed scroll design. The hind legs are squared but the front legs are more elaborate cabriole legs with acanthus leaf hock that terminate in ball-and-claw feet.

 

Lot 215 of the Salcedo Auctions auction on 26 September 2020. Please see salcedoauctions.com for more details.

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