An elegant matched pair of Louis XVI-style stained mahogany armchairs, or fauteuils, combining restrained Neoclassical proportions with particularly handsome carved detailing. Each chair features a tall rectangular upholstered back framed by molded and beaded decoration, above a generously cushioned seat and gracefully curved open arms with upholstered rests.
The dark mahogany frames are enriched with carved acanthus and foliate details, rosette blocks at the corners of the seat rail, and classically inspired molding. The chairs are raised on slender tapering, fluted legs, a hallmark of the Louis XVI vocabulary. The warm coral-red upholstery is finished with coordinating nailhead trim and contrasts beautifully with the deep reddish-brown mahogany. The reverse retains a complementary small-scale geometric textile.
Their substantial proportions, loose seat cushions and relatively high 21.5-inch seat height give the pair a more comfortable and usable presence than many delicate period-style fauteuils, while retaining the architectural elegance of French Neoclassical seating.
Provenance: From the Estate of Gilbert C. Maurer, longtime Director and former COO of Hearst, former President of the Whitney Museum Board, and Director and Trustee of the Norton Museum of Art in Palm Beach, Florida.
Dimensions, each: 38.5" H × 23.5" W × 21" D Seat height: 21.5" H
