Offered by Didascalies
Pair of formerly lacquered caned armchairs, stamped Étienne Meunier, circa 1750, 18th century, Paris.
Private collection.
In good condition.
Dimensions: H. 93.5 cm × W. 64.5 cm × D. 51.5 cm.
We present this very fine and elegant pair of armchairs stamped Étienne Meunier, carved with flowers, foliage, and acanthus leaves.
The armrests follow a line known as coup de fouet, and the chairs rest on four cabriole legs. The flat backs are violin-shaped.
History:
Étienne Meunier, the most renowned of the cabinetmakers bearing this name, was the brother of Antoine Meunier and therefore the uncle of Jean-Baptiste. He also worked during the first half of the 18th century. His workshop on Rue de Cléry is recorded until 1770.
He supplied seating to several dealers, including Pierre Migeon. Meunier specialized in the production of classic Louis XV desk armchairs with a diamond-shaped plan, gondola back, and central front leg. He was very probably one of the creators of this model, numerous examples of which, fitted with cane and sometimes covered with leather, bear his stamp.
Étienne Meunier’s production was not limited to desk armchairs. His stamp appears on fine Louis XV cabriolet and à la reine chairs, with restrained, well-designed curves. Chaise longues and daybeds with scroll ends are also known. The carving, generally restrained, often consists of a flower framed by a few leaves at the center of the backrest and seat rail. The lower rail of the backrest forms a gentle curve.
Museums:
Paris, Musée des Arts Décoratifs
Paris, Musée Jacquemart-André
Paris, Musée du Louvre
Strasbourg, Musée des Arts Décoratifs
Amsterdam, Rijksmuseum
