Italian Lacquered and Parcel-Gilt ‘Chinoiserie’ Bergère and Stool, ca. 1900

Lacquered and gilt wood, gilt caning
Italy, ca. 1900
Bergère armchair: 85 x 64 x 58 cm (33.5 x 25.2 x 22.8 in.)
Stool: 38 x 50 x 40 cm (15 x 19.7 x 15.7 in.)

This bergère armchair, together with its stool, results from a free and eclectic interpretation of Chinese-inspired motifs, in particular the leiwen, or “thunder” pattern, a kind of meander that begins here at the feet and whose returns meet on the apron, where they are surmounted by a gilt chrysanthemum. The scrolled armrests end in a gilt motif resembling the corolla of a lily of the valley. It appears to be a late production, probably Italian, dating from the late 19th or early 20th century. The upholstery, imitating leopard skin, is modern, and both the armchair and the stool have undergone restoration.