Large Gondola-shaped Bergère Chair Stamped Ib Cresson, Paris, Louis XV Period.

A very elegant and wide Louis XV period gondola-shaped bergère chair in molded beechwood, stamped IB Cresson for Jean-Baptiste Cresson, one of the leading figures of the great Parisian dynasty of 18th-century chair makers. This chair is captivating for the quality of its proportions and the precision of its lines. The particularly high and enveloping backrest adopts a gondola shape with a slight backward incline, offering remarkable comfort while creating a supple and continuous silhouette. The recessed armrests blend naturally into this fluid line, without any break or stiffness. The seat rail, shaped on all sides, harmoniously follows the overall curve of the chair. The ornamentation, deliberately restrained, is limited to a few delicately carved elements: a small flower in the center of the front rail, repeated on the backrest, and also on the corner blocks. The cabriole legs terminate in small, truncated conical feet, surmounted by an acanthus leaf that elegantly highlights the beginning of the curve. The piece demonstrates fine Parisian craftsmanship, where meticulous molding and masterful lines take precedence over an abundance of decoration. This model, with its particularly enveloping gondola-shaped back, belongs to the typology of the wide Parisian bergère chairs of the 1740s and 1750s, designed to offer enhanced comfort while maintaining a fluid and continuous silhouette. This form, particularly prized for its ergonomics and elegance, enjoyed lasting popularity, appearing during the reign of Louis XVI and throughout the 19th century, notably during the Empire and Louis-Philippe periods. The stamp IB Cresson is found beneath the front rail, attesting to the Parisian origin of this chair. Born into the renowned Cresson dynasty, one of the most important lineages of chair makers in 18th-century Paris, Jean-Baptiste Cresson (1720–1781) became a master craftsman in 1741. This family, based primarily on the rue de Cléry in Paris, played a major role in chair production during the Regency and the reign of Louis XV, supplying a prestigious clientele and actively contributing to the evolution of taste. Jean-Baptiste Cresson continued the tradition of a family workshop structured around several generations of cabinetmakers, including Louis, René, and Michel Cresson. His stamp, "IB CRESSON," clearly identifies his work. His chairs are distinguished by their flowing, balanced lines and restrained carving, emphasizing elegance and quality of craftsmanship. The wood retains its original ochre paint, now beautifully patinated, with natural wear perfectly consistent with its age, fully contributing to the charm and authenticity of the chair. The structure is sound and the joints are solid. The chair underwent restoration about ten years ago, with traditional upholstery crafted according to the highest standards, offering excellent seating comfort, complemented by a beautiful cushion. The cover was made at that time from an elegant yellow damask fabric, decorated with stylized plant motifs such as pomegranates and palmettes, in the style of classic fine silk furnishings. This fabric is now in perfect condition, without any noticeable stains or wear. The piece is in very good overall condition, offering a chair that is authentic, comfortable, and decorative. Dimensions: Back height: 95 cm Width: 71 cm Depth: 67 cm Seat height: 43 cm