A repose-pied is a small tabouret first seen paired with 17th century chairs. While using an armchair, a repose-pied would allow the seated person to rest their feet on the small foot stool. These small tabourets were often upholstered and designed for comfort, such as our giltwood tabouret with orange velvet upholstery, which was hand-carved circa 1720, during the Regence period
The upholstery has been hand-cut in what is known as cisele velvet, where the dense piles have been cut to render a pattern. In this case, the velvet has pineapples surrounded by foliate branches. Hundreds of iron nailheads were used to affix the fabric to the detailed giltwood frame. Motifs include scalloped leaves, C-scrolls, and lozenge patterned background. Four cabriole legs with stylized hoof feet form a solid base to the tabouret. A comfortable and functional seating accessory, this giltwood French Regence tabouret de pieds would make a wonderful footstool.
CONDITION: Good antique condition with minor age separations and losses to gilding. Light buildup to velvet upholstery. Touch ups of gold throughout.