A Pair Of Louis XVI-era Queen's Armchairs, Upholstered In Beauvais Tapestry.

These chairs perfectly illustrate the evolution of French taste during the final decades of the Ancien Régime. The turbulent curves of the Louis XV style were succeeded by more orderly forms, inspired by antiquity. The tapered, fluted legs, the connecting blocks carved with rosettes, the scrollwork on the armrests, and the basket-handle-shaped top rail are all quintessential elements of the Louis XVI decorative vocabulary.

The quality of these armchairs lies above all in their design and proportions. The lines are understated, the carving discreet, yet every detail is carefully considered. The gradual widening of the seat toward the front, the joints between the armrests and the backrest, and the overall balance of the forms all attest to exceptionally meticulous cabinetmaking. The backrest posts are topped with carved acanthus capitals, while the moldings and fluting add a subtle sense of depth to the overall design.

Crafted from walnut, these armchairs benefit from the qualities of this wood, which was prized by 18th-century cabinetmakers for its stability and the finesse of its finish. Here, it allows for precise work on the joints and moldings.

The decoration is primarily provided by the Beauvais tapestry, which covers the backrests and seats. Composed of floral bouquets, drapery, ribbons, and lambrequins, it features motifs characteristic of the late 18th-century neoclassical repertoire. The contrast between the understated woodwork and the rich decorative upholstery fully contributes to the elegance of this pair.

The armchairs have retained their original repainted finish as well as the checkered fabric on the back of the seatbacks. The woodwork and tapestries are all in very good condition and retain a beautiful sense of authenticity.

Dimensions:
Height: 93 cm
Width: 59 cm
Depth: 59 cm
Seat height: 40 cm