Here is one of the OLD and original Fantasy pieces of furniture that were made in the late 1800's for the wealthy folks who wanted to furnish their "Grotto" with unique and fantastic sea creatures.  These early pieces were intricately carved and then gilt in either silver or gold and sometimes both.  This piece was carved in mahogany, then gessoed with a white base to serve as the base for the under color (red or blue) for the top coating of gilt.  This particular chair was painted over many times and we were able to wash off most of the top gold coats before getting down to the original one.  The rockers were taken all the way down to wood/gesso at the time.  Believe it or not, it is a comfortable rocking chair and very solid structurally. Note that there are a number of reproductions of Fantasy Furniture coming out in the market these days.  This is an Original!

Size ................ Small to Medium Adult size
Circa .................. 1880-1900
Price ................... $1595