An exceptional and rare swivel chair-stool designed by Carel Adolph Lion Cachet (1864–1945), one of the Netherlands’ most influential decorative artists of the early 20th century. Lion Cachet was a pioneer and key figure in the development of the Amsterdam School of design, working across sculpture, print, textiles, interiors, furniture, ceramics, and ship interiors and decoration.
This fascinating piece was originally made for shipboard use, as suggested by its intentionally weighted construction - a design necessity for stability at sea- and its compact, ergonomic swivel function.
The bronze casings around the feet prove that this chair was designed by Lion Cachet.
Lion Cachet is best known for his richly decorative, craftsmanship-driven work that helped shape Dutch decorative arts around 1900–1930. He designed complete interiors for a number of Dutch passenger ships, including salons and staterooms for steamship companies - merging artistry with the practical demands of nautical environments.
What is fascinating about this chair is the fact that Cachet combined a Biedermeier frame with expressive Amsterdam School bronze mask-like feet:
Each leg terminates in a heavy bronze foot with mask-like relief ornament, evocative of architectural sculpture popular in Amsterdam School circles - closely aligned with the spirit of designers like Michel de Klerk and other contemporaries who celebrated expressive, figurative detailing. The bronze has developed a rich patina, complementing the chair’s wooden tones and maritime robustness.
Completely reupholstered by a specialist using traditional methods, this chair is supremely comfortable and visually striking. The luxurious fabric harmonizes with the era’s aesthetic while supporting the piece’s function in a modern interior.
While the exact original shipboard role isn’t documented, its swivel base and weighted stability strongly suggest placement in a captain’s space, study area, or salon where both comfort and reliable seating amid motion were required. The chair serves fluidly as both a stool and a seat, making it wonderfully versatile today as an accent piece, vanity chair, or rich focal point in any interior.
Creator
Carel Adolph Lion Cachet
Design Period
1915-1925
Production Period
1920s
Country of Manufacture
Netherlands
Identifying Marks
Style
Late Biedermeier meets Amsterdam School
Detailed Condition
Good - constructively in perfect condition. Wood professionally restored, expertly reupholstered.
