How do I identify Louis XVI style chairs?

Louis XVI style chairs feature straight fluted legs, geometric shapes, and oval or rectangular backs. These design elements reflect an eighteenth-century neoclassical reaction to curved rococo forms. Craftsmen often incorporated ribbon twists and acanthus leaf carvings into the wooden frames. Upholstery on these pieces typically matches the rectilinear geometry of the structure.

Were these chairs used at dining tables?

While many examples function as salon or accent seating, specific listings include dining chairs and side chairs built for formal meals. Dining variants generally feature higher seats and narrower frames without arms. Armchairs and fauteuils served primarily in reception rooms, libraries, and bedrooms for formal conversation or reading. Their decorative carved frames prioritised visual display over practical dining use.

How should I care for giltwood finishes?

Giltwood requires dry dusting with a soft brush to protect the delicate gold leaf layer. Moisture and abrasive cleaners can strip the historical gesso and metallic leaf from the wooden substrate. Placement away from direct sunlight and humidity prevents the underlying wood from expanding and cracking the gilt surface. Gentle handling preserves the original patination built up over centuries.

What is the difference between an armchair and a fauteuil?

A fauteuil is a specific type of French open-arm armchair characterised by upholstered armrests and exposed wooden framing. General armchairs may lack upholstered pads on the elbow rests and follow English or Italian regional designs. Both forms provide raised seating supported by carved legs and structural stretchers. The terminology often reflects the historical origin of the workshop that built the frame.