Napoleon III Bench in Walnut, 1880

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Description

A two-seater bench of french origin, stylistically reminiscent of napoleon iii and dating from around 1880. The curved backrest, the … Read more A two-seater bench of french origin, stylistically reminiscent of napoleon iii and dating from around 1880. The curved backrest, the rolled armrests, and the low seat height create a broad, calmly flowing overall form, whose effect derives from the lines of the upholstery rather than ornamentation. Historical context: benches of this type – known as banquettes in french – were standard furnishings in bourgeois salons, anterooms, and reception rooms in the late 19th century. They offered seating for two people while requiring less space than a full sofa and were often placed freely in the room or against a wall. With the industrial spread of webbing and spring upholstery, the design focus of this period shifted from the visible wooden frame to the shape of the upholstery and the fabric; the frame remained concealed except for the legs. Casters on the front legs were common, as seating furniture in living spaces was frequently rearranged during this time. Features: the armrests are fully upholstered and covered, terminating in rolled volutes that are executed as independent, three-dimensional elements. All edges of the seat, frame, and backrest are finished with inlaid decorative cord; the back is covered with dark muslin and nailed. Design: napoleon iii, a french expression of historicism. The design follows a comfort-oriented principle: closed upholstery surfaces, curved top and side lines, no carving. The turned walnut front legs with ring molding form the only visible wood accent and give the piece a defined lower edge; the rear legs flare outwards in a saber shape. The striped upholstery with woven floral bouquets adopts the louis xvi stripe scheme, which was widely used for parlor upholstery in the late 19th century. Dimensions: height 86 cm × width 130 cm × depth 56 cm, seat height 44 cm. Material and condition: frame: solid wood, legs: walnut. Upholstered in light green and cream striped fabric with a woven floral pattern, trimmed with decorative cord, front legs with casters. In good, stable condition for its age, with a light patina on the upholstery. There is a small stain on the front, visible only upon close inspection. Inspected and cleaned. See less