LAR KINSARVIK (1846-1925), CIRCA 1910

Alongside his compatriot Johann Borgersen, Kinsarvik was one of the leading exponents of the nationalistic Norwegian Arts & Crafts movement referred to as the 'Dragon' style. Incorporating Medieval and Viking symbolism, the movement reflected the rise of Norwegian nationalism during the nineteenth century, culminating in Norway's independence from Sweden in 1905. A similar chair was shown at the International Exhibition in Paris in 1900. Other examples are in the collections of the Musée d'Orsay, Paris and the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.