Fashionable and functional, this Spanish bench from the 1800s is supported by a well-carved walnut frame, capable of seating three adults. Embossed leather covers the seat, as well as the three backs, which are contiguous and topped with a series of leaf cup finials. The chocolate colored leather is affixed by numerous brass nailheads in the shape of rosettes. Each back has an identical foliate rinceaux scene that is dotted with flowers and three putti climbing grapevines, set within a textured console with a repeating lozenge border. Similar imagery embellishes the plush seat, on a smaller scale, surrounded by a wide, repeating border of two intertwined dolphins flanked by cabochons.

The beauty of the embossed leather is matched by the rich patina of the walnut wood that accentuates the turned legs (eight total) and side rails. A stretcher that runs along the back side is also turned, while the front connectors are presented as sinuous foliate margents. The two arm stumps are turned balusters, both topped by a gracefully sweeping arm with a ram head handrest. Our Spanish walnut and embossed leather bench would make a wonderful addition to an entryway, landing, or living room.  It is quite rare to find seating that accommodates three people, as typically Iberian woodworkers preferred to carve single side chairs or armchairs.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Commensurate leather chapping with some light losses. Minor nicks and losses to the wood frame, with restoration work to one arm. A nailhead is missing from the front, but this can be replaced by an identical one from the back side.