Emmanuelle Pomare Armchair or Morticias Chair, 1890s

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Admit it, you too dream of owning one of these magnificent armchairs, objects of desire and fantasy.

But do you … Read more Admit it, you too dream of owning one of these magnificent armchairs, objects of desire and fantasy.

But do you know its history? Let me tell you about it!

In 1974, the erotic film "Emmanuelle" was released, and this chair, formerly known as "Pomare," took on a new name and a whole new symbolism. It was thanks to actress Sylvia Kristel, who, half-dressed, lasciviously caressed the rattan of the chair with her body, that this piece of furniture became the icon we know today.

Poster for the very first "Emmanuelle" film, released in 1974.
Yes, indeed! Before becoming famous in the 1970s, this chair was called Pomare. You've probably noticed that it looks like a throne, and that's no coincidence: it was originally a Polynesian throne.

This chair comes from the Pomare dynasty, a Polynesian royal family that ruled Tahiti at the end of the 18th century. The first king of this lineage, Pomare I, chose this name in honor of his daughter who died of tuberculosis at the age of 5. "Po" means "night" and "maré" means "cough," so "Pomare" means "coughs at night."

During the reign of Pomare V in the early 20th century, this throne became known as the Pomare chair. Legend has it that Prince Hinoi (Teriihinoiatua Teraimateata Pōmare) died sitting on his throne, and it was in his honor that the chair took its name in Polynesia.

Today, this famous rattan chair is back in fashion. It comes in all shapes and colors, fitting perfectly into any interior. It sells for a fortune, both in its original form and in reproductions offered by major home decor retailers.

The most ironic thing about this story is that this chair, which our parents got rid of after the movie came out, can now sell for around €350. But with a little patience, you can find one at a more affordable price on second-hand websites. However, you'll have to be quick, because this chair leaves no one indifferent, not even Heaven Von CatCat, Dita Von Frite's famous cat!

By the way, here's a little anecdote: did you know that this chair appeared on television even before the movie "Emmanuelle"? In 1964, it was part of the set design for the American series "The Addams Family." It was the throne of the beautiful Morticia, played by Carolyn Jones. In some countries, it is still called "Morticia's chair," while in France, it is better known as the "Emmanuelle chair." See less