18th Century French Painted Louis XV Fauteuil À La Reine Armchair With Blue Silk

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When French armchairs, such as this period (1700s) Louis XV fauteuil, have the designation à la Reine, this refers to … Read more When French armchairs, such as this period (1700s) Louis XV fauteuil, have the designation à la Reine, this refers to the flat back, meaning that the chair was intended to be placed against a wall of the chateau. The elegance of the chair is on full display, with the frame having supple curves that are equaled by an exquisite light blue silk upholstery that includes two accent cushions with golden tassels.

Although the back is flat, that is not to say the chair is rigid, as the shapely top rail features a scalloped leaf crest flanked by gentle scrolls. The scrolls continue along the top seam, terminating in front of a curled leaf atop each shoulder. Short armrests with padded manchettes are supported by splayed stumps that emanate from the tight whorl of the hand rest. A subtle outcurve on the sides of the seat are exaggerated by the asymmetrically carved apron. The arbalete front apron, which is adorned with a central, asymmetrical curled leaf, seamlessly joins a pair of cabriole legs with a roquillard embellishment and scrolled feet. Similar legs can be seen in the back, although without the acanthus leaf. The wood has been painted light gray, which pairs wonderfully with the upholstery, as it features a repeating pattern in light gray of a bee encircled by a laurel wreath. Both aesthetically appealing and comfortable, this Louis XV fauteuil is a fantastic option for seating in a bedroom corner, boudoir, or living room. See less