2001
THE FOUNDING OF 1STDIBS BRINGS THE DELIGHT AND ROMANCE OF THE PARIS FLEA MARKET TO AN ONLINE CLIENTELE.
While living in Paris, founder Michael Bruno frequented the Marché aux Puces, the legendary flea market renowned as a destination for design-lovers and collectors. It inspired him to launch an online marketplace that would bring the excitement of a treasure hunt to the world. 1stDibs continues to provide access to the most beautiful things on earth — including those imbued with the glamour and rich history of Paris itself.
"1stdibs is a place where collections are born."
Michael Bruno, 1stDibs Founder
The bergère is a type of French upholstered armchair from the 18th century whose design reflects the culture of its time. It was the first type of chair to focus on comfort and relaxation, with ample lines and padding conducive to extended lounging. Essentially a meuble courant, the bergère was intended to be moved about, rather than arranged as a permanent part of the formal décor. This one, sold as a pair reupholstered in vintage fabric, is carved by hand in fruitwood, with remnants of darkened gilt and gesso that lend it a lovely patina.
The bergère is a type of French upholstered armchair from the 18th century whose design reflects the culture of its time. It was the first type of chair to focus on comfort and relaxation, with ample lines and padding conducive to extended lounging. Essentially a meuble courant, the bergère was intended to be moved about, rather than arranged as a permanent part of the formal décor. This one, sold as a pair reupholstered in vintage fabric, is carved by hand in fruitwood, with remnants of darkened gilt and gesso that lend it a lovely patina.
“French antiques always work and always look beautiful. Those pieces help places remain classic. And they pair well with modern sensibilities because they’re comfortable. Louis XVI bergères and fauteuils are comfortable because they’re human scale. They don’t take up a lot of space on a floor plan.”"
Melissa Morgan, M Interiors
A field guide for anyone who wants to brush up on their knowledge of French antiques
Shop French Antiques
Renaissance Revival Armoire, ca. 1700
Louis XV Period Canapé, 18th Century
Baccarat Crystal Chandelier, ca. 1880
French Embroidery Carpet, 1770
21 Years of Special Deliveries
Transporting a Treasure
"When the client purchased Damien Hirst's In Love they didn't know what to expect in terms of shipping and the seller didn’t realize the butterflies would be an issue with customs. Endangered breeds will be flagged for inspections, particularly if all of the information is not available. Plus, based on previous experiences importing to Asia, I knew that materials can react to sudden, extreme climate changes like humidity — things like fogging on the surface, bubbling or cracking.
We didn't know how the surface of the painting or the fragile butterfly parts would respond to this and we didn't want this painting sitting in customs waiting for an agent to view it and risking damage. So I enlisted artist Damien Hirst's entomologist to confirm the species of butterfly — and the fragility of the wings. We, therefore, had a complete outline of the species. I then insisted on climate control to ease the painting into the Asia climate. I was pleased to learn that the painting arrived safely and made a much-loved addition to the client's collection"
Catherine Garger Lutz
1stDibs Special Acquisitions Advisor
