Pierre Pillot Pair Of Louis XVI Style Chairs From Nîmes Late 18th Century Provence

Pierre PILLOT (1748–1822), attributed to

Pair of queen-style chairs

Molded, carved wood with a cream-colored lacquer finish

Nîmes, late 18th century

Our pair of chairs, although unmarked, was made in Nîmes at the very end of the 18th century. While Pillot marked only a large portion of his production, his work is nonetheless easily recognizable due to its distinctive style. Indeed, our pair of chairs with straight backs rests on four leg-and-shaft legs carved with deep fluting, the upper part of the leg featuring a doucine motif. This type of leg exhibits a design language found throughout his entire body of work.

A cabinetmaker halfway between Lyon and Italy
Pierre Pillot created a considerable number of pieces, primarily chairs in a style characteristic of the Louis XV and Louis XVI periods, in which one can recognize the dual influence of Lyon’s aesthetic, as evidenced by the rigor of the design, and Italian art, as seen in its eminently decorative character.

According to his advertising card—fragments of which were found on a console table belonging to Mr. H. Maroger—this manufacturer, established “near the Market, No. 106,” sold both cabinetmaking and carpentry pieces, such as chests of drawers, Greek-style tables, Turkish-style beds, sofas, medallion armchairs, etc. In general, Pillot’s chairs feature heavier ornamentation, consisting of rectangular meanders, acanthus motifs, and laurel scrolls.

Condition Report
The structure is in good condition, and the joints are solid. The chairs have been re-lacquered in cream; one of them shows wear on the lacquer. The upholstery on the back is in very good overall condition, with no stains or wear.