Aubusson Footstools
Although the production of authentic Aubusson textiles and other furniture is based in Aubusson, France, and at just a handful of small weaving workshops in nearby Felletin, the exceptionally detailed tapestries are renowned throughout the world as wall hangings, carpets and upholstery for a range of seating including sofas and armchairs.
Aubusson’s centuries-old tapestry production industry was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009 by UNESCO, affirming its importance in European decorative arts. The complex and labor-intensive process of weaving images involves hand-dyed wool to achieve specific hues, giving landscapes, scenes and floral patterns a distinctive realism.
Dating back at least to the 16th century, the Aubusson style has changed over time, with early work influenced by Turkish rugs that were popular with the European elite before the rise of the Italian Renaissance with its natural motifs. In 1665, the Aubusson workshops received the Manufacture Royale title, raising their visibility in France and beyond during the 17th century, with many authentic Aubusson tapestries produced for royal palaces and other prominent residences.
In the 18th century, the design of Aubusson textiles reflected the fad for chinoiserie. During the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century, artisans from Aubusson were involved with the Old Windsor Tapestry Manufactory in England. In the 20th century, now-iconic artists such as Alexander Calder and Joan Miró worked with Aubusson weavers on pieces.
The Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie complex, which features a museum, opened in 2016 in Aubusson to recognize and preserve this heritage.
Find a collection of authentic Aubusson rugs and carpets, pillows, wall decorations and other furniture on 1stDibs.
1840s French Antique Aubusson Footstools
Walnut, Nutwood, Wood, Wool, Tapestry, Fabric
19th Century French Antique Aubusson Footstools
Wood, Fabric
19th Century French Antique Aubusson Footstools
Mahogany
Mid-20th Century Aubusson Footstools
Brass
Late 18th Century English Antique Aubusson Footstools
Upholstery, Oak
19th Century French Antique Aubusson Footstools
Burlap, Wood, Walnut
1970s Unknown Vintage Aubusson Footstools
Wood, Wool
Late 20th Century Aubusson Footstools
Upholstery, Wood
1910s Vintage Aubusson Footstools
Wood
Late 19th Century French Antique Aubusson Footstools
Tapestry, Wood
Mid-18th Century French Antique Aubusson Footstools
Velvet, Mahogany
Late 20th Century Aubusson Footstools
Upholstery, Wood
1910s American Vintage Aubusson Footstools
Wood, Wool
1930s Vintage Aubusson Footstools
Wood