Louis XIV-style Leather-Upholstered Window or Hallway Bench

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On offer is a French Louis XIV-style upholstered window or hallway bench. For much of the late 18th-century, this grand … Read more On offer is a French Louis XIV-style upholstered window or hallway bench. For much of the late 18th-century, this grand style was intentionally designed to project the power, majesty, and wealth of the "Sun King." Although this piece was crafted in the mid 20th century, it pays homage to the opulence of that earlier era with an inspired design executed with elaborate carving.
The bench’s carved apron is adorned with gilded, curving acanthus leaves leading to equally gilded scallop shells—an early sign of the Rococo style just dawning towards the end of Louis’s 73-year reign. Six ornately carved legs, similarly decorated with acanthus foliage and scrolls, are connected by curved horizontal stretchers at the bottom. Here, too, inlaid scrolls with wisps of gilt acanthus connect to gilt shells at the center.
Tufted leather upholstery with brass nail head trim balances the solidity of the frame. While it would add notable seating to a hallway or under a large window, this bench would look superb at the end of a good-size bed. And it has a twin, should you be interested in a pair.
Signature/Maker’s mark: Nonexistent. See less