A Set of 3 gnarled Vine and Faux Porphyry Bar Stools

A Set of 3 Gnarled Vine and Faux Porphyry Bar Stools

A distinctive set of three bar stools combining rustic charm with mid-century French flair. These stools exemplify inventive 1950s design, blending natural forms with artful surface finishes evocative of luxurious stone.

Origin: France
Date: Circa 1955
Material: Burr wood, later painted with faux porphyry

Dimensions: Height: 72.5 cm (28.5 in), Width: 56 cm (22 in)

Condition: Excellent patina, later decorative painting to seats

During the mid-20th century, French interiors embraced both organic motifs and refined decoration, evident in these gnarled vine bar stools. The clever use of faux porphyry—a technique celebrated since antiquity and revived by designers such as Maison Jansen—infuses each piece with a classical yet playful character. Comparable examples can be seen in curated 20th-century decorative arts collections and boutique hotels, highlighting their continued appeal.

Notable Features:

• Expertly sculpted burr wood frames, mimicking twisted vines or branches for a naturalistic appearance
• Seats painted in a trompe l’oeil faux porphyry finish, referencing ancient Roman luxury and lending a richly coloured, semi-precious look
• Rare as a matched set of three, these stools are distinguished both by their craftsmanship and by the impeccable balance of organic texture and sophisticated surface work
• The robust dimensions and striking design make them equally suitable for display in a curated bar area, as statement seating in a contemporary interior, or as a focal point within a collectors’ ensemble of mid-century French bar stools

The harmonious marriage of sculpted burr wood and painted faux porphyry creates a playful nod to classic materials while staying firmly rooted in a modern aesthetic. This set offers not just practical seating, but a conversation piece, perfect for collectors or design enthusiasts seeking something out of the ordinary for their home or collection.