A fauteuil is an upholstered armchair featuring open wooden arms that remain exposed rather than being padded over. These seats originated in French formal rooms to accommodate voluminous court clothing. Today, they function as statement accent chairs in living spaces and bedrooms, combining decorative carved frames with comfortable upholstered seating.

How do I spot a revival piece?

Revival pieces from the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries adopt historic Louis styles while utilising manufacturing methods and wood conditioning typical of their actual production era. Examining the underside and joinery helps distinguish nineteenth-century interpretations from eighteenth-century originals. Craftsmen during the revival periods often incorporated machine assistance alongside hand carving, resulting in uniform decorative elements.

Where should I place these chairs?

These armchairs suit formal drawing rooms, libraries, and bedroom corners where their gilded frames and textured upholstery can function as focal points. Pairing them with contemporary furnishings creates an effective contrast of periods. Due to their open arm construction and historic textiles, placing them away from direct sunlight preserves the delicate gilded surfaces and fabrics.

What distinguishes giltwood from paint?

Giltwood consists of metal leaf applied over a gesso base on timber, creating a reflective metallic sheen that ages with subtle craquelure. Painted finishes lack this metallic reflectivity and utilise liquid pigments applied directly to the wood. Parcel gilt examples combine both techniques by highlighting specific carved ornaments with gold leaf while painting the remainder of the frame.