This stunning oak pie dieu (prayer kneeler) features Gothic carved details and a central cross motif, a book nook for your prayer books, and a padded armrest and kneeler. This piece will be professionally refinished and reupholstered to your specifications—you choose the stain/paint finish, fabric (velvet, damask, linen, leather, etc.), and trim details (nailheads, gimp, welt, contrast piping). This would be perfect for a home prayer space, chapel corner, or anyone who loves historic, architectural furniture.
Originating in France during the 17th century, the Prie Dieu, which literally translates to Pray God in French, was designed for private devotional use. This specific style with a shelf for a Missal or prayer book became standard in Catholic Churches and private chapels throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The oak construction and simplified scrollwork are characteristic of ecclesiastical furniture manufactured for both parish and home use.
Details
· Padded kneeler + padded armrest
· Built-in shelf for missal/Bible/prayer books
· Carved cross medallions + Gothic cutout apron
· Custom finish + custom upholstery included
Process
· Design consult (fabric/finish options + trim)
· Refinishing and fresh upholstery with new padding as needed
· Final photos before pickup/delivery
Fabric and shipping are additional; local pickup in Philadelphia area available.
How Ordering Works
This prie dieu is restored and finished to order, tailored to your style from start to finish. Turnaround is approximately [time] once we finalize your selections and I have your fabric in hand.
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Choose your look
Pick your upholstery fabric (and any finish preferences for the frame). If you’re not sure, I’m happy to help you narrow options so it fits your space and lifestyle.
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Send your fabric or have me source it
I gladly accept Customer’s Own Material—you can ship or drop off your fabric. Prefer that I source it? I can do that too (fabric costs are separate).
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Restoration + upholstery
I’ll refinish the frame per your preferences, rebuild the seat as needed for comfort and longevity, and upholster everything with a clean, tailored finish.
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Pickup or shipping
Local pickup in Philadelphia is available. White-glove shipping can be arranged at additional cost.
Customer’s Own Material Guidelines
- Please send upholstery-weight fabric suitable for seating (I can confirm before you purchase).
- Yardage depends on pattern repeat and fabric width—message me your fabric link or a photo and I’ll tell you exactly what you need.
- Turnaround begins when the fabric arrives.
Pricing Note
Fabric and shipping are additional. Your final quote will be confirmed once we select fabric/finish details and any seat rebuild needs are assessed.
