Pair of Early 19th Century Salon Chairs

A pair of Regency era bergère library or salon chairs, in the style of Gillows of Lancaster and London. English, circa 1825.

Why we like them

Arguably the most comfortable model of chair ever created. The padded, wrap-around backrests provide useful support for the back, but also lend more presence to these chairs.

Design

The innovative design of these chairs reflects the late 18th – early 19th century search for new forms in all areas of art, corresponding to the shifts in political thought in the post-Revolutionary France. Rooted in classical Greek and Roman Antiquity that was firmly associated with democratic ideals, such new designs, inspired by the ceremonial seats of high magistrates of Ancient Rome, became a visual expression of the intellectual inclinations of the progressive elites. Charles Percier and Pierre Fontaine, the legendary French architects to Napoleon Bonaparte, were responsible for developing this influential neoclassical Empire, or Directoire, style of design.

The Gillows firm produced this comfortable and popular model of 'curricle' bergère in various timbers and with various form of decoration.

A very similar set of chairs sold from the Collection of the Marquis and Marquise de Ravenel, Christie's London, 21 November 2007, lot 44 (£16,000). For a further related set see Christie's London, 6 March 2008, lot 43 (£22,100).

Dimensions

Width: 51.5 cm / 20.25”
Depth: 56 cm / 22”
Height: 82 cm / 32”
Seat height: 41 cm / 16.25”