In Baroque chair construction, the intersection of the X-stretchers is finished with what decorative element?

• A. Finial
• B. Crest
• C. Medallion
• D. Gallery

Answer: (A)

In Baroque chair construction, the intersection of the X-stretchers is finished with a finial, which serves as a decorative cap that crowns the central junction. The X-stretchers provide structural reinforcement, and placing a finial at their crossing creates a focal point that aligns with Baroque affinity for dramatic, ornate details at pivotal joints. Finials appear as urns, acanthus, or other elaborate shapes that extend the vertical emphasis and dynamic energy of the design.

A crest sits on the top edge of the back rail rather than at the chair’s crossing, a medallion would be a circular disk applied elsewhere on the piece, and a gallery refers to a horizontal decorative band or row of vertical supports along a panel. None of these best occupy the central crossing of the X-stretchers in this context.