Pair of armchairs "à la Reine", stamped CRESSON

Pair of Armchairs with Flat Backs
by René Cresson (circa 1705-before 1745)
known as Cresson the Elder, Master in 1738

Paris circa 1740, Carved Natural Walnut
H. 98 cm x W. 71 cm x D. 60 cm

The Cresson family formed one of the greatest French dynasties of chair makers in the 18th century. Cresson the Elder was the first to sign his works; having died at around 40 years of age, he is also the one whose production is the rarest. His creations represent a kind of transition between the Louis XIV and Louis XV periods and are distinguished by a nobility of line and proportion. His carving is profound, richly detailed, and his hand is particularly recognizable in the clasps and the flowing projections that adorn the seat rails and backs, as seen in this pair.

This pair of armchairs combines numerous criteria of quality. This is a model with a wide seat and a flat back, very richly carved. The frame is in particularly good condition, with no grafted legs, and no crossbars replaced or resoled. Both armchairs are signed on their back rails.

The lines of these chairs are perfectly designed. The backs are slightly higher than they are wide, and their tall, well-shouldered rails are richly carved. The curve of the legs is balanced and remains within the sober and classical style of the early Louis XV period. The superb treatment of the legs is noteworthy, with a sculpted, enveloping hoof-shaped finial decorated with acanthus leaves and a triple ball. This particular leg decoration is sometimes found in the work of Nicolas Heurtaut. Finally, the crossbars are particularly well crafted with the rich clasps characteristic of Cresson the Elder.

These chairs have undergone a complete restoration, both in terms of woodwork and upholstery, by the finest specialized craftsmen available to us. The fabric is a Rubelli manufacture and the trimmings are custom-made.