Offered by Galerie Delvaille
French furniture of the 18th century & French figurative paintings
Set of six "Queen's style" armchairs in carved and gilded wood
Parisian work circa 1735, attributed to René Cresson (active until 1745)
H. 96 cm x W. 72 cm x D. 71 cm
Seats reproduced on page 254 of the Le Robert Dictionary
"Dictionary of Furniture and Works of Art of the Middle Ages"
By Aurelia and Anne Lovreglio, 2006 edition
Provenance: Parisian private collection
Acquired at the 2006 Biennale des Antiquaires (Paris, Grand Palais)
These six armchairs with flat backs, known as "Queen's style" armchairs, are made of finely carved beechwood and gilded with gold leaf. The abundant carving consists of foliate scrolls, bursting pomegranates, acanthus leaves, and clasps. The elegant curve of the legs and rails, the well-shaped backrest, and the ornamental motifs suggest the work of the eldest member of the Cresson family, a dynasty of cabinetmakers among the finest of the first half of the 18th century. The wide seats, perfectly proportioned to the shape of the backrests, give these chairs a remarkable line.
These six armchairs have retained their original gilding, notably their exceptional re-gilding, which is an unusual and distinctive feature. This re-gilding, decorated with waves, is present on all the uprights and rails, both front and back.
It is worth noting that chairs produced in large series during the 18th century have often been sold separately since then. Today, sets of six armchairs are rare. Moreover, the condition of these chairs is excellent, as all the frames are entirely original. No joints, rails, or uprights have been replaced or resoled.
