AntÌlope Dining Chair

Sculptural Walnut and Velvet Chair

The Antìlope Dining Chair by Sebastian Blakeley blends sculptural artistry, luxurious materials and a rich design origin story. Inspired by stylised animal forms of early cave paintings, this bespoke chair merges velvet upholstery, cast aluminium and hand finished North American Black Walnut into a piece that is as elegant and symbolic as it is functional. Designed originally in Siena, Italy and now handcrafted in the UK the Antìlope is the chair that started it all.

A Vision Born from Line and Legend

The origin of the Antìlope emerged from a two-dimensional sketch - a fluid, minimal line drawing that echoed ancient art. That primal aesthetic evolved into a fully realised form when Sebastian built the first prototype in a metalworking studio outside Porta Romana, Siena. The result: a chair that symbolises movement, elegance and tension in every curve.

Art Meets Engineering - Materials that Define form

The Antìlope was the first of Blakeley’s designs to incorporate cast aluminium, now precision cut via CNC and finished in powder-coated or polished options. The leg structure evokes Antìlope horns and limbs - strong, graceful and slightly abstract.

Fine Walnut and Velvet Upholstery

The seat features handcrafted North American Black Walnut chosen by Sebastian for its rich, tactile grain and warm hues. Paired with luxurious velvet upholstery the materials offer a balance of organic texture and softness. The combination of elements creates a visually commanding yet comfortable seating experience.

Designed for Statement Interiors

The Antìlope Chair holds presence without excess. Its architectural frame and curved silhouette make it suitable for luxury dining rooms, gallery-style interiors and design-forward hospitality venues. The use of negative space between the structural elements gives the chair a lightness and life despite its robust construction.

Commissioned Craftsmanship - Handmade To Order

Each chair is crafted by hand in Sebastian’s UK workshop and is only available via commission. Clients can work directly with the designer to adjust materials, upholstery choices and finishes to match their scheme or concept vision.