A pair of Régence Walnut frame armchairs, Early 18th Century, circa 1720

A pair of Régence walnut frame armchairs, molded, carved, and waxed . The flat backs are elegantly violin-shaped; the sinuous armrests with flared hands and scrolls rest on curved consoles. These consoles are recessed into the lower part of the back and rest on a console-shaped support, known as a "gallant recessed" console, which fits into the side rails of the seat rails set back from the front legs. These rails are shaped on all sides and strongly curved on the front and sides. The entire structure rests on a base composed of four cabriole legs with scrolls, joined by stretchers with flowing crossbars. A harmonious array of innovative yet still highly symmetrical carvings, such as shells, acanthus leaves, palmettes, and flowers, adorns the entire shaft. Dimensions: Height 91cm, Width at armrests 61cm, Seat width 53cm. Less solemnity and rigidity in favor of greater comfort and softness; a philosophy dear to the beginning of the century. A beautiful alchemy combining symmetry, movement, suppleness, and harmony testifies to the evolution of seating during the Regency period and, more precisely, allows us to date them to the 1720s, in the latter part of the Regency and around the time King Louis XV came of age in 1723. At the end of the Regency, considered a period of transition in taste, the Louis XV style distinguished itself by its whimsy and asymmetry. The great care taken with the connecting elements, of impeccable quality, is noteworthy. Balance, dynamism, elegance, and quality are the most appropriate terms to describe this very beautiful pair of chairs. Observations: Excellent condition. Note the restorations carried out at the request of the previous owner, including the repair of the tenons on the frame of one of the backrests and a very fine reupholstering of the leather, creating a beautiful effect. However, traces of former reinforcements remain on the back of the frame, but our workshop can remove them upon request. *The frames allowed for easy seasonal changes, from upholstered backrests and seats in winter to caned seats in spring, or for changing the type of upholstery. **The elegant restraint: The fashion for pannier dresses is ill-suited to chair arms positioned directly above the front legs. Elegant ladies could only sit on the edge of the seat, otherwise their skirts would be gathered up to their knees in the most unflattering way imaginable. Also, the armrests and consoles that support them will adapt to this new use by positioning themselves further back in order to please them. A little historical aside: Duke Philippe d'Orléans, Regent of France, died on Thursday, December 2, 1723, after supper around seven o'clock in the evening, dozing in his very comfortable armchair on the shoulder of one of his favorites, the Duchess of Phalaris... 14 months after the young Louis XV was consecrated and crowned in Reims on October 25, 1722.