Offered by Étienne de Roissart
REQUEST INFORMATION
Directoire Period Extending Dining Table in Cuban Mahogany, Rosewood, Brass and Gilt Bronze, Stamped Jean-Joseph Chapuis.
This Directoire-period extending dining table, crafted in Cuban mahogany and rosewood, is adorned with brass inlays and gilt-bronze mounts and bears the stamp of Jean-Joseph Chapuis. It is accompanied by five additional extension leaves, each measuring 60 cm (23.6 inches). These leaves were added later but are veneered in matching mahogany and feature the same frieze, ensuring a harmonious appearance.
With the five extension leaves in place, the table reaches a length of 4.30 metres (14 ft 1 in). It can be further extended by an additional 2.10 metres (6 ft 11 in), allowing a total length of 6.40 metres (21 ft) with supplementary leaves. The table stands on eight tapered legs terminating in brass caps and castors.
Chapuis’ distinctive style is characterized by elegant geometric brass inlays, seamlessly integrated into the woodwork. The table retains its original oak extension mechanism (carriage and runners), designed to accommodate five leaves as well as two additional extensions.
Jean-Joseph Chapuis (1765–1864) was one of Belgium’s most important cabinetmakers, born and active in Brussels during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Trained within the local artisan tradition, he became a master cabinetmaker at the end of the eighteenth century and quickly gained recognition for the exceptional quality of his work.
Chapuis is particularly renowned for introducing and developing the Neoclassical and Empire styles in the Southern Netherlands (present-day Belgium). His furniture, executed in mahogany and fine veneers, is distinguished by elegant proportions, restrained decoration, and a harmonious aesthetic inspired by Classical Antiquity. He was influenced by the leading French decorative arts of the Napoleonic period and is known to have collaborated with the architect Charles Percier.
He was awarded the prestigious title of Supplier to the Royal Court.
Today, Jean-Joseph Chapuis is regarded as one of the greatest Belgian cabinetmakers. His works are preserved in numerous museums and private collections, attesting to the excellence of Brussels furniture-making during his era.
