Directoire Folding Metal Chaise Longue

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Directoire Folding Metal Chaise Longue

About the Item

A Directoire folding metal chaise longue Attributed to Desouches, locksmith of the Garde-Meuble Literature: D'Acier: L'Art du mobilier et des objets en fer et acier polis. U. Leben in Connaissance des Arts, #520. September, 1995. pp. 108-121. In polished wrought iron and varnished metal with a curved back and cylindrical front and back legs terminating with wheels. At the end of the 18th century there was a great interest in the manufacture of metal furniture like this, which they tied to their interest in the mystery and the magic of alchemy. The materials were associated with the idea of force, virility, and prestige since antiquity. In England the greatest advancement in technology was seen where they were able to achieve the high temperatures needed to refine iron minerals. Their methods were then followed by Tula (Russia), Sweden, and Germany, who produced metal furniture and decorations for export. France then developed its own metallurgic industries in Bergundy and the Dauphiné making armaments, machinery, architectural elements, and furniture. Furniture in steel and polished iron became very fashionable, sustained by a rich clientele including the royal family, the clergy, and the aristocracy. During the Revolution, metal furniture was popular due to the minimalist character and the contrast to the rich gilt bronze of the Ancien Régime. The daybed in steel was the furniture most in demand, as it was considered both practical and functional for trips. Marie Antoinette ordered metal daybeds for "corbin." An artisan named Desouches is cited as a "locksmith mechanic," who specialized in the fabrication of beds in iron, ornamented in copper, working for the state after the Revolution. He is known to have made a number of pieces of polished iron camp furniture used by Napoleon on campaign. Passionate about mechanisms, he tried to improve the positions they could be put into for the maximum in comfort: "J'ai appliqué cette idée a la confection de fauteuils en fer plaints, qui permettent de prendre dans leur abattement, un développement tel, qu'ils peuvent être assimiles à des lits." He obtained a patent of invention for 10 years.

Dimensions:
Height: 33 in (83.82 cm)Width: 69.5 in (176.53 cm)Depth: 20 in (50.8 cm)Seat Height: 11 in (27.94 cm)
Style:
Directoire (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Metal
Place of Origin:
France
Period:
1790-1799
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1790
Condition:
Excellent Antique Condition.
Seller Location:
New York, NY
Reference Number:
Seller: CHRF 18-3221stDibs: LU85432629172