Armchair of the Empire period in mahogany with Egyptian-head motifs, early 19th century

Empire period mahogany armchair with Egyptian heads, early 19th century

Dimensions:

Height: 94 cm
Width: 62 cm
Depth: 50 cm

An elegant Empire period mahogany armchair, raised on four sabre legs to the rear and sheathed legs to the front, terminating in claw feet.

The armrests feature remarkable carved consoles in the form of sphinxes or winged Egyptian female heads, an emblematic motif of the Egyptianising taste that flourished under the First Empire.

The bowed seat rail is articulated with decorative gilt bronze roundels.

The slightly raked back is framed by scrolled uprights, and the piece retains a fine harmony of proportions.

The upholstery is covered in a fabric with a Neoclassical design of flower baskets and foliate motifs.

The gilt bronzes, claw feet and armrest ornaments all underscore the prestigious character of this seat.

Period

First quarter of the 19th century, Empire period (circa 1810–1820).

Style

Empire.

Materials

Mahogany, gilt bronzes, upholstery and fabric.

Condition

Good overall state of preservation.

Wear consistent with age and use, with some marks to the wood and traces of age to the fabric.

Structure sound and stable.