How do I care for silk upholstery?

Silk requires protection from direct sunlight to prevent fading and degradation of the natural fibres over time. Gentle vacuuming with a soft attachment helps remove surface dust without damaging the weave. Professional cleaning is advisable for stubborn marks, as water can leave rings on antique silk fabrics. Using armcaps can also reduce wear on high-contact areas.

Are these chairs comfortable for daily use?

Many period armchairs were built for formal reception rooms rather than lounging, meaning the seats can feel firm. The supportive frames and upright postures suit reading or conversation. Upholstery stuffing materials vary by period, influencing the give of the seat and back. Testing individual pieces helps determine whether they suit your intended use.

How can I tell eighteenth-century frames apart from later revivals?

Eigteenth-century frames display the tool marks, timber shrinkage and construction methods characteristic of period joinery. Wood species and fastener types also offer clues to the actual date of manufacture. Nineteenth-century revival pieces often copy earlier styles like Louis XVI or Chippendale while employing contemporary manufacturing techniques. Examining the underside and interior frame components reveals these structural differences.

What is the difference between a fauteuil and an open armchair?

A fauteuil specifically denotes a French open-arm armchair with upholstered arm pads. These frames usually feature exposed carved giltwood or walnut. English open armchairs of the Georgian period follow distinct regional proportions and carving styles, such as the Irish manner or Hepplewhite designs.