Definition: a type of X-frame chair, in which two legs, sometimes composed of multiple slats, cross each other and rise to form the arms, creating the silhouette of a wavy X; developed in late 15th century-early 16th century Italy, it was originally a foldable adaptation of the ancient Roman curule, only with more angular legs and the addition of a low back; often the wood was carved or inlaid; later Renaissance Revival versions in the 19th century often featured high backs and even more ornate carving or inlay
Pronounciation: sav-on-a-roll-a
Also Known As: Dante chair (often a simpler variation), scissors chair, X-frame chair, curule chair (generic)
Example: As they grew increasingly ornate, Savonarola chairs lost their portability and became more like massive thrones or chairs of state.