Pair of carved and Mecca gilded wooden stools, Naples, 18th century

Pair of carved and Mecca gilded wooden stools, Naples, 18th century Measurements: H 50 x W 46 x D 42 Price: private negotiation Item accompanied by a certificate of authenticity This fine pair of stools was made in Naples around the mid-18th century, during the Louis XV period. Each stool is made of carved wood and features moving and arched bands and legs, adorned with rocaille-style relief elements with vegetal designs. The asymmetrical decoration of the under-seat band is particularly striking, lending movement and refinement to the whole. The feet end in a curl, supporting a graceful and elegant ensemble. The under-seat band is richly carved on three sides, while on the fourth side the wooden structure is intentionally left smooth so that the seats can be placed against walls without compromising the ornamentation. The wood has silver leaf gilding in the Mecca style. Meccatura is a type of gilding performed on silver leaf so that it takes on the appearance and preciousness of gold leaf. Mecca is a varnish with an ancient recipe that was jealously guarded in workshops. It involves the use of sandarac gum and gamboge gum in alcohol, dragon's blood and other ingredients which, when mixed together, contribute to the different chromatic elements of Mecca. Seat covering in modern fabric. The two stools, of good workmanship, are very decorative and suitable for inclusion in environments with antique furnishings as well as next to modern furniture. To be placed against walls, they can be considered in a living room, in pairs or individually, next to consoles or chests of drawers, or they are perfect in an entrance or in a hallway.