Jacob Freres Empire-style Mahogany Armchair, Stamped “imperial” Model, Early 19th Century, Circa 1800

François Honoré Georges Jacob DESMALTER (1770–1841)
Mahogany armchair with mahogany veneer on beech
Doweled joints
Stamped on the front crossbar: Jacob Frères, Rue MESLEE
Paris, circa 1796–1803

Dimensions: H 93; W 63; D 53 cm

Large armchair made entirely of mahogany and mahogany veneer, resting on tapered, saber-shaped legs, with a slightly convex waist, and a smooth backrest and armrests. The chair is upholstered in the traditional style with horsehair on webbing, covered with velvet fabric. Unfortunately, our chair no longer has its delivery label (though traces of it are visible), which could have revealed the identity of its patron.

A creation by the firm JACOB FRERES Our armchair, stamped on the front crossbar, was crafted by the most famous carpentry and cabinetmaking workshop of the early 19th century. Jacob FRERES was the principal supplier to the Imperial Furniture Depot.

Our armchair can be linked to a small series delivered to a government ministry and to the Élysée Palace (see the last two photographs) bearing the numbers INV GMT-13482-000 and GMT-29662-000, both of which are preserved at the Mobilier National

An illustrious dynasty
The Jacob brothers were the sons of Georges Jacob, one of the greatest chairmakers of the 18th century. After training them, he left them his workshop in 1796. Georges Jr. and François-Honoré founded the firm Jacob Frères on Rue Meslée, producing furniture and chairs in the Directoire and Consulate styles. Given their success, Georges came out of retirement to help his son furnish the imperial residences of Napoleon I. The Jacob dynasty continued its business during the Empire and the Restoration as a supplier of imperial and royal furniture

Condition Report:
The woodwork is sound and very stable. There is no play in the joints. The velvet upholstery has been re-tensioned and is in very good condition.

Delivery:
Contact me for an exact quote, but expect around 60/100 euros for delivery within France