Important Set 12 Antique French Louis XV Style Distressed Carved Dining Chairs

Details

Description

Dimensions: 40 inches high x 19.5 inches wide x 20.5 inches deep. Seat Height 20 inches

An exceptional and rare … Read more Dimensions: 40 inches high x 19.5 inches wide x 20.5 inches deep. Seat Height 20 inches

An exceptional and rare set of twelve antique French Louis XV style dining chairs, masterfully crafted with elegant proportions, luxurious materials, and richly detailed carving. Executed in the manner of Maison Jansen, this remarkable suite embodies the refined sophistication and timeless appeal associated with one of the most prestigious design houses of the 20th century.
Each chair features a beautifully sculpted solid wood frame with intricate hand-carved detailing, including scrolling cabriole legs, floral motifs, and finely worked aprons. The craftsmanship throughout is of the highest caliber, reflecting the level of quality typically associated with Maison Jansen workshops. While the chairs are not signed, the quality, scale, and design language—combined with their provenance—strongly suggest a Jansen influence, if not origin.

The chairs are upholstered in a superb high-quality velvet fabric, offering both visual richness and exceptional comfort. A particularly rare and desirable feature of this set is their slightly larger seat scale, which differs from traditional Louis XV dining chairs of the 19th and early 20th centuries. This increased proportion makes them far more comfortable and functional for modern use, while still maintaining their classic elegance.

Most notably, this set carries important historical provenance, having originated from the estate of Marylou Whitney, one of the most prominent American socialites and tastemakers of the 20th century. The chairs are documented in situ within her historic Lexington residence, further enhancing their desirability and significance. A photo of the chairs in her dining room are shown. Whitney was widely known for her impeccable taste and her affinity for fine European furnishings, particularly pieces associated with Maison Jansen.

Marylou Whitney (1925–2019) was a celebrated philanthropist, socialite, and cultural figure, often referred to as the “Queen of Saratoga.” She played a prominent role in American high society, hosting influential gatherings and supporting numerous charitable causes, particularly in the arts, healthcare, and thoroughbred racing communities. She was married to Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney, linking her directly to the powerful Whitney and Vanderbilt families whose influence dates back to America’s Gilded Age. Her residences were renowned for their refined and carefully curated interiors, often featuring important and high-quality European furnishings. Ownership of a piece from her estate represents not only exceptional design and craftsmanship, but also a tangible connection to a distinguished and historically significant American legacy.

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a complete and cohesive set of twelve chairs with both exceptional craftsmanship and distinguished provenance—ideal for collectors, designers, and those seeking a statement dining suite of true character and history.
The set is in good antique condition with the exception of some light surface scratches, Minor finish loss and normal age related wear. as well as some minor wear to the upholstery as shown. As to be expected with items of age and use. See less