Master Art

This elegant caned ebony settee is profusely carved. The back rest, arms, front seat rail and legs have ornamental, scrolling leaf and floral motifs, with large flowerheads dominating the overall design. The carved legs are joined by spirally fluted stretches and end in paw feet. In the 19th century, ebony furniture was widely made in Sri Lanka, especially in Galle district. Most of the pieces were made for export, manufactured to suit the tastes in England; and carved ebony furniture was found in many English stately homes.