Dating to circa 1885, this pair of hand-carved parcel paint cabriolet armchairs are in the style of Louis XVI. The thick oval medallion backs (which have retained their original checkered canvas on the verso side) have been adorned with a trophy at the crest, featuring a floral margent tied to an arrow quiver by a twisted rope. Emanating from beneath the trophy are two distinct motifs: rais-de-couer beneath repeating husks, with both sets of carvings encircling the entire chair back.
Short, out-swinging arms with volute foliate hand rests extend above the voluminous cushions. They are supported by slightly incurved arm stumps adorned with a beaded margent that terminates just before the leafy base. Similarly, the connectors that attach the back to the seat cushion are shapely leaves. A second husk motif can be seen on the skirt of each chair, just beneath large bead and reel. All four fluted spindle legs with arrow feet are attached by a square joinery embellished with a floret. Each of the chairs has white linen upholstery (the backs, the small arm manchettes, and the cushions are all lined), which pairs nicely with the cream parcel-painted frames that have touches of gold and brown. A beautiful pair of cabriolet armchairs in the style of Louis XVI, the chairs could be utilized in the living room, library, or den.
CONDITION: Very good condition with minor age separations and rubs to the wood. Light staining to some areas of the upholstery with very light fraying.