Exceptional pair of Queen's armchairs with their original tapestry

Louis XV Period

Dimensions : H. 102 x W. 70 x D. 57 cm

Pair of large carved natural wood armchairs. These flat back chairs were made of beech and walnut by François REUZE, master in 1743. They present a superb sculpture with a rich floral decoration. The legs are vigorously curved, decorated with a scroll and a large flower at the top.  The tips of the feet are finely carved with an acanthus leaf on top of a ball. Note the beautiful clasps on the side belts and the bottom of the backs. Generally speaking, the sculpture of these seats is both powerful and precise. The condition of the barrels is perfect, with no breaks or major restorations. The carving is not worn, and the woods are extremely sound.

These seats have kept their very beautiful original Aubusson tapestry, with flowers and animals. The condition of these tapestries is remarkable: the original colours are still very fresh, and the restorations, perfectly executed, are very few. These seats have been perfectly restored, whether it is in carpentry, in the restoration of the tapestries or in the complete repair of the upholstery. The comfort is firm, so that the seats can be used without damaging the tapestry.

François Reuze is one of the best chair carpenters of the reigns of Louis XV and Louis XVI. He worked in the rue de Cléry for more than fifty years. He supplied the furniture of the Crown, notably Queen Marie-Antoinette, as well as the Swedish court. Despite the longevity of his career, he seems to have favoured the Louis XV style.

Among the many museums and collections where Reuze's works are preserved, let us mention the Carnavalet museum in Paris where we can admire his Louis XV furniture: a cabriolet-backed bergère in gilded wood, 4 lacquered chairs, a gilded wood marquise with a flat back...