Pair Of Molded And Lacquered Green And Coral Wood Armchairs, Directoire Style, Circa 1850-1870

Pair of Molded and Lacquered Green and Coral Wood Armchairs, Directoire Style, Circa 1850-1870

Description:

This pair of armchairs features a gently arched back, its upper section scrolling into a volute, extending into padded armrests supported by baluster-turned consoles. The same reeded, ring-turned balusters recur at the top of the front legs, which taper and are fluted, while the rear legs, slightly splayed, remain simply tapered. The seat rail, animated by a fluted frieze, is centered on each face with a carved rosette medallion.

The molded wood is lacquered in a three-tone palette of almond green, coral, and beige, characteristic of the taste for painted furniture that persisted throughout the 19th century. The restrained curves and tapering lines draw directly on the Directoire repertoire, this pair elegantly reprising its proportions and ornamental vocabulary nearly half a century later.

Both armchairs retain a figured ivory silk upholstery, decorated with oval medallions enclosing gallant scenes, framed by polychrome floral garlands and baskets, edged with a twisted ribbon trim.

Technique:

Molded and carved wood, lacquered in polychrome (green, coral, beige). Armrest consoles and upper leg sections baluster-turned and reeded, front legs tapering and fluted. Fluted seat rail with carved rosette medallions. Figured silk upholstery with gallant medallions and floral garlands.

Dimensions:

Height: 36 1/4 in (92 cm)

Width: 21 5/8 in (55 cm) D

epth: 20 1/2 in (52 cm)

Condition:

Good overall condition. Attractive aged patina to the old lacquer, with a few localized rubs and minor chips of no consequence. Old silk upholstery with well-preserved color. Sound overall stability for both chairs.