Relevant categories: Seating and Chairs
(Above photo - Pair Gilt French Arm Chairs Empire Fauteuils )
French gilt arm chairs are some of the most exquisite furniture pieces ever created. They’re not only attractive but also very comfortable. These chairs were designed and produced over varied historical periods beginning in the late 17th century. Therefore, they exist in different shapes, sizes, and forms.
So, how do you identify a French gilt armchair? Despite having been produced in varied periods, these armchairs carry similar characteristics. The purpose of this article is to highlight some of the common features among these armchairs.
There is no specific shape for the French gilt arm chair. While some of the chairs have curved oval backs, others have elegant rectilinear backs. Still, others chose more dramatic designs with elaborate carvings on the back. It all depended on the desires of the individual who’d commissioned the piece of work and the designer’s though process. A good example is the Louis XVI gilt armchair with an oval back.
(Above photo - Pair Painted Arm Chairs Regency Tucan Print Interiors )
Most French gilt armchairs were made from mahogany, even though some featured materials like walnut and rosewood. Upholstery for the seat and back were mainly made from flowery or striped fabrics. However, some chairs have leather upholstery. To give them their distinctive elegance, designers used bronze gilt mounts to emphasize the veneers.
Typical French gilt arm chairs were highly decorated. They were not just created to be functional but to impress guests and hosts alike. They had elaborate carvings of rosettes, acanthus leaves, garland sways and horns of plenty. There were also over-mounted crown cartouches, recessed shoulder braces, and cuff braces. Those made in the 1940s were rather minimalist to conform to the Art Deco style.
The legs and feet of the French gilt armchairs were created to provide stability and comfort to users. Regardless of the type of feet and legs, the chairs are always sturdy and ready to support human weight to any level. Depending on when the chairs were designed, they have tapering or fluting legs to enhance their sense of elegance. Still, some chairs have spiral legs created in an elegant twisted-fluted design. Mostly, the chairs have arrow or arched feet.
( Above photo - Gilt French Arm Chairs - Empire Chair Fautueils Seat )
Given that they’re armchairs, these pieces of furniture have arms. But the arms aren’t designed the same way. While some arms are recessed, others go all the way to the edge of the seat. Some armchairs have elongated rectilinear or down swept arms.
Since they were created over different periods, French gilt arm chairs feature varied styles. For example, there are Empire-style armchairs from the early 19th century with leather upholstery. Art Deco French arm chairs have a minimalist modern look. On the other hand, Louis XVI gilt arm chairs feature neoclassical forms, including elaborate carvings, floral or striped fabric upholstery, and gilt bronze embellishments. These styles may not necessarily be situated in a given historical period but can transcend time with reproduction.
In conclusion, French gilt armchairs are worth purchasing because of their sheer elegance. You can use them to enhance your home’s interiors decor. They are comfortable and suitable for prolonged sittings.
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