Pair of armchairs

In the period of the maharajas some Indian artists and patrons adapted Western styles to their needs. Similarly, some Western artists were inspired by Indian styles, and found a demand among collectors.

While the overall shape of these chairs is Western, the decoration, with its scalloped upper edge and intricate pierced floral scrolls, is closely based on Indian styles. They were designed by the Lockwood de Forest, an American designer and associate of the well-known designer Louis Comfort Tiffany. De Forest traveled to India in 1881, staying for two years. India's arts and crafts, particularly its woodcarving, both old and new, made a strong impression on him.

He collaborated with an Indian businessman to set up the Ahmedabad Woodcarving Company. De Forest designed luxurious furniture and room interiors, which were carved in India and then shipped to the U.S. for the homes of wealthy clients.