Napoleon III Wrought Iron Music Stool w/ Black Lacquered Finish - 18½"

This elegant Napoléon III period adjustable-height music chair is crafted from wrought iron with a black lacquered finish, showcasing intricate decorative elements that elevate its sculptural quality. The base is adorned with a curious and captivating motif of gilt dolphins, finials, and scrollwork that gracefully winds along the legs and central support column. The tripod base, finished with hoof-like feet, enhances both stability and ornamental appeal, while the perforated seat frame—once covered in caning—awaits restoration. The height-adjustment mechanism, though presently seized, features beautifully worked iron components that speak to the craftsmanship of the era.

During the reign of Napoléon III (1852–1870), furniture design embraced a revivalist aesthetic, drawing on elaborate ornamentation and historic motifs. Wrought iron seating of this kind was often found in salons or music rooms, where its combination of durability and refinement suited both practical and decorative purposes. The presence of dolphin motifs, a symbol of power and elegance in French decorative arts, further emphasizes the chair’s role as a statement piece. Such articulately designed stools were used by musicians or pianists, allowing for an adjustable seating height suited to different instruments.

This music chair offers a striking addition to contemporary interiors, blending industrial charm with ornamental sophistication. Left in its current timeworn state, it pairs beautifully with loft spaces or eclectic ensembles filled with antique and modern elements. Restoring the caned seat would allow for functional use at a piano or writing desk, while its sculptural base makes it an intriguing conversation piece in a curated living space. Whether placed in a music room, atelier, or used as a stand-alone accent, this Napoléon III stool brings 19th-century French artistry into today’s décor with effortless grace.