Louis XV Style Carved Natural Wood Duchesse Brisée Chair, Circa 1750-1770, 18th Century

A superb Louis XV period duchesse brisée armchair in molded and carved natural wood, circa 1750-1770. Comprising a substantial and wide bergère with a very enveloping back and a footrest section, this duchesse brisée features discreet and elegant floral decoration on the upper parts of both backs and cartouche ornamentation surrounded by scrolling foliage on the rails and sides of both sections of the seat. This carving, more discreet and less ornate than the decoration of chairs made at the beginning of Louis XV's reign, is typical of the period from 1750 to 1770, more restrained and less exuberant. It is a chair of imposing proportions, giving it a truly remarkable width and seat depth. Note the exceptional thickness of the cushions, whose softness and comfort naturally invite relaxation and reverie. The bergère alone allows for use as a comfortable lounge chair. The woodwork is in very good condition, the frame is sound and solid (a tiny restoration on the back of the armchair (see detail in photo 8)). The upholstery is also in good condition, and the whole piece is extremely comfortable. Only the blue/pearl gray velvet upholstery shows some stains and wear (top of the backrest, back of the footrest, see photo 12 for details).