Napoleon III Ebonized Folding Armchair — Original Crewelwork, c.1875

Details

Description

A fully original and unrestored folding armchair from the French Second Empire period, circa 1860–1875, retaining its period crewelwork upholstery … Read more A fully original and unrestored folding armchair from the French Second Empire period, circa 1860–1875, retaining its period crewelwork upholstery on both seat and backrest — a rare and increasingly hard-to-find survival.

The ebonized hardwood frame is formed in the distinctive curule X-base associated with Napoleon III-era French campaign and occasional seating. Its scrolled, swept arms retain subtle traces of original gilt-painted decoration along the inner surfaces, consistent with refined Parisian cabinetmaking of the period. The folding mechanism remains fully functional and structurally sound.

Both seat and back are upholstered in what appears to be the original 19th-century crewelwork embroidery — wool thread on a tan linen-woven ground — featuring a richly worked floral design with star-like blossoms in muted blue, ivory, and sage tones, interwoven with olive and burgundy foliage and berry detailing. The composition continues seamlessly across the seat, the front of the backrest, and the reverse panel, an uncommon and noteworthy detail suggesting a purpose-made textile application rather than later adaptation. Original brass nail-head trim secures the upholstery throughout.

The piece is presented entirely as found. The frame retains its original ebonized surface with honest wear consistent with age. The textile shows authentic, time-earned patina including gentle fading, light edge fraying, and surface wear to high points — all expected of a genuine 19th-century furnishing that has not been concealed, restored, or altered.

A rare opportunity to acquire an untouched decorative seating piece that has survived in true original condition.

— Dimensions: H 34 in (deployed) · Seat 14 × 14 in · Seat height 19 in
— Origin: France, circa 1860–1875
— Style: Napoleon III / Second Empire
— Condition: Unaltered original; structurally sound frame; upholstery shows age-appropriate wear
— Upholstery: Period crewelwork needlework on linen, wool thread, original brass nail-head trim
— Frame: Ebonized hardwood with gilt decorative accents, curule folding X-base See less