Georges Jacob - Set Of 4 Etruscan-style Directoire Period Chairs In Mahogany And Horsehair

A beautiful set of four Etruscan-style chairs in molded and carved mahogany. The model features molded front legs with gadroons and Etruscan-style saber-shaped rear legs. The inverted, scrolled back is adorned with a carved grille and a tan leather panel. Parisian work from the late 18th century, Directoire period: circa 1790-1800. Three chairs bear the stamp of Georges Jacob below the seat rail. These chairs are typical of the Etruscan style, very fashionable at the end of the 18th century and directly inspired by the archaeological finds of Greco-Roman antiquity, as depicted by the painter David. Georges Jacob, at the forefront of fashion, was one of the pioneers of this new style, creating the first mahogany chairs known as English-style chairs for the Count of Provence at Versailles. He launched the Etruscan style by designing Etruscan-style furniture in carved mahogany, delivered in 1788 for the dairy at the Château de Rambouillet. His clientele, eager for novelty, included, in addition to the Royal Family, the Duke of Orléans, the banker Laborde, the Marquise de Marbeuf, foreigners residing in Paris such as Count Kerry and Princess Kinsky, and even the King of Naples. Although denunciations were made against him during the Reign of Terror, Georges Jacob was not troubled thanks to David's protection. He even supplied furniture for the Convention and the offices of the Committees. On this occasion, he received designs from two architects whom David recommended, Percier and Fontaine, the starting point of a fruitful collaboration. We have given these beautiful pieces the level of restoration they deserve: the mahogany has been French polished to a pristine condition. Handwoven horsehair upholstery, mounted on a "knife edge" weave. This luxurious fabric is now manufactured by only one company in France and worldwide. Beautiful, rare chairs for connoisseurs. The model is exceptionally elegant with high-quality, understated finishes that Jacob enthusiasts will appreciate. Very good condition, with traces of previous restorations. Width: 46cm Height: 83cm Seat height: 42cm