2 "return From Egypt" Empire-style Armchairs

Pair of Empire-period armchairs, known as “Return from Egypt,” possibly attributable to Bernard Molitor

A rare pair of Empire-period armchairs, apparently made of mahogany and blackened wood, with decoration inspired by the Egyptian campaign, resting on claw-foot front legs and saber-shaped rear legs.

The armrests are carved with winged figures in the style of sphinxes or Egyptian-inspired caryatids, characteristic of the early 19th-century “Return from Egypt” style. The armrests are adorned with gilded bronze and copper friezes featuring palmette and rosette motifs.

The armchairs feature an entirely doweled construction, attesting to their age and high-quality craftsmanship. The upholstery has been completely reupholstered in an elegant red fabric featuring gold-woven laurel wreaths, with matching trimmings.

The gilded bronze ornaments appear to have been added at a later date, likely during the 19th century (the palmettes on one armchair are copper-plated rather than gilded; see photo), without detracting from the overall aesthetic of the set.

The set can be tentatively attributed to a major Parisian workshop of the period, and in particular possibly to Bernard Molitor, due to the quality of the craftsmanship, the carvings, and the proportions, although the absence of a hallmark precludes a definitive attribution.

In very good condition. Some signs of wear and previous restorations consistent with its age. The structure is sound and perfectly stable.

Period: First Empire, circa 1805–1815.
Wood: Appears to be mahogany and blackened wood.
Upholstery: Recent.
Origin: France.

A decorative pair of fine quality, representative of Imperial furniture inspired by antiquity and the Egyptian expedition.