Louis XV style painted and gilded bergere from France c. 1850

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Louis XV style painted and gilded bergere from France c. 1850

About the Item

A gorgeous Louis XV style bergere from France c. 1850 retaining its original gilded and painted finish. Please notice the curvaceous form Rococo design that originated in the mid seventeen hundreds in France. The term "bergere" refers to the fact that this armchair has sides that are fully enclosed by upholstery. A chair with open arms is known in France as a "fauteuil". Please look at the crest rail and notice the central carving that is asymmetrical in shape. This asymmetry is a hallmark of Rococo design as the emphasis was placed on replicating the sinuous and sensuous quality of the natural world where a straight line is never seen especially amongst living plants. Note also that the carved embellishments on this chair retain their original gold leaf. Each of the shoulders slope gently down to the sides and are enhanced with a scrolled flourish. A similar design is seen where the side meets the upholstered arm. A wonderful aspect of this chair is the carved wooded front of each arm that shows where multiple hands have rubbed the painted finish completely down to the underlying wood. This visible passage of time is a quality of antiques that is extraordinarily powerful. The apron below the seat is centred on a carved flourish again highlighted with gold leaf. The broad curve of the apron continues across the sides and along the back and continues seamlessly where it joins the legs. Each leg exhibits the beautiful curve known as a "cabriole" that each terminate in a scrolled foot. Both front legs also have a gold leaf carved decorative element that adds beauty and interest. The unusual aspect of this chair is the manner in which the carved wooden area is an integral piece of the entire frame. The upholstery actually is pulled back to reveal its full profile and the loose seat cushion wraps around the arm to further enhance its shape. Chairs in eighteenth century France were created not only for comfort but also as pieces of sculpture in the room meant to reinforce the quality of the architecture. Remember that it was pitch black at night except for the natural illumination produced by lighted candles and a blazing fire. The use of paint and gilding to increase the reflective quality of walls and furniture was always employed by people of means to create a luxurious interior. This chair is a wonderful example of that desire. The fresh upholstery is of a forest green hemp chosen to contrast with the voluptuous curves of the chair and to create a more casual feeling in our modern life.

Dimensions:
Height: 41 in (104.14 cm)Width: 30 in (76.2 cm)Depth: 31 in (78.74 cm)
Materials and Techniques:
Upholstery,Wood,Gilt
Place of Origin:
France
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1850
Condition:
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: BH701a1stDibs: U1007198668136