Pair Of French Napoleon III Lyre Back Chairs, Circa 1880

An elegant pair of French Napoleon III chairs dating to circa 1880, distinguished by their graceful proportions and finely detailed lyre-shaped backs. The design reflects the renewed interest in classical decorative motifs during the Napoleon III period, with the central carved lyre creating a particularly attractive and distinctive silhouette.

Crafted in stained wood with a rich, warm brown patina, each chair features an openwork back composed of slender turned spindles surrounding the lyre motif. The arched crest rail is decorated with carved details and framed by shaped uprights terminating in small carved finials. Further ornamentation appears along the curved seat rail and lower front stretcher, with delicate beading and repeating carved motifs adding refinement without overwhelming the elegant structure.

The chairs stand on slender fluted and turned legs joined by turned stretchers. Their shaped seats are upholstered in a floral fabric in soft cream, rose and muted earthy tones, providing a gentle contrast with the darker stained wood.

The pair displays an attractive aged patina and signs of wear consistent with age and use, preserving the character expected of genuine 19th-century seating.

A charming and decorative pair of Napoleon III chairs, equally suited to a bedroom, dressing room, entrance hall or as occasional seating.

A matching Napoleon III armchair from the same suite, featuring the same lyre-back design, is available for sale separately.

Dimensions (each chair):
Height: 88 cm / 34.65 in
Width: 44.5 cm / 17.52 in
Depth: 45 cm / 17.72 in
Seat height: 46.5 cm / 18.31 in