No other city than Paris engenders visions of elegant style, glamour and cultivated history. Naturally, the Parisian creations of antique furniture, art and literature are invariably blessed with the Muse of this fashionable city. This particular stylish antique bergere (the French name for a wing chair or a chair with closed, usually upholstered arms) was created in the City of Lights at the end of the 19th century. I can almost picture in my mind the grandeur of the Beaux Artes period in Paris that gave rise to the building of many charming apartments and townhomes all over the city ~ all elegantly furnished with the latest styles. French chairs in my opinion are the superstars of the French furniture world, always demanding attention with their striking lines and sumptuous upholstery of antique silk or tapestry. This antique bergere is just such an example that commands this type of focus.
Superbly hand-carved from solid French walnut in the timeless classical style so admired by Louis XVI, this elegant bergere features a stylized wingback design that provides superlative comfort. The spiral ribbon, beading and egg & dart molding that envelopes the framework follows a plunging seatback crown centered with carved roses and flowing ribbon. Tapered & spiral fluted legs provide support, and the silk upholstery is in very good condition. The soft white original painted finish has achieved a lovely patina over the past century, helping to accentuate the delicate and fine relief carving even more. As of this writing, a matching ottoman is also available! Circa 1890s.
Ever since the discovery of Herculaneum and Pompeii in the middle of the 18th century, Paris was swept with enthusiasm for the neoclassical form. Expertly carved and painted Louis XVI bergeres such as this one were created during this time, and never went out of style!
One of the unique elements of this bergere is the spiral fluting on the legs that is generally considered more visually interesting and more difficult to execute from the artisan’s perspective. Such fluting seems to be found only on chairs of excellent quality. My favorite element is the original soft white painted surface which with age has become delicately worn and has acquired a subtle patina, only adding to its charm!
There was also a conservative artisanal rural tradition of French country furniture which remained unbroken until the advent of the railroads in the mid-nineteenth century. By the way this chair is looking awesome.