What is a bergere chair?

A bergere is a traditional enclosed armchair featuring upholstered sides set within a visible wooden frame. They are typically deeper and wider than standard open armchairs. These pieces were designed for comfortable lounging in private rooms rather than upright formal sitting in grand reception halls.

How do I spot a revival piece?

Nineteenth-century revival items often mimic earlier eighteenth-century reigns like Louis the fifteenth or sixteenth. Look closely at the wood ageing, joinery methods, and hardware to determine the true production era. Makers of the eighteen-hundreds frequently combined historical decorative motifs with machine-assisted manufacturing techniques common to their own period.

Where should I place these chairs?

These seating options suit various domestic settings, from drawing rooms to bedrooms and reading corners. Their decorative frames allow them to function as statement pieces or accent seating alongside contemporary furnishings. Ensure placement avoids direct sunlight to protect delicate silk or velvet fabrics and original painted wood finishes from fading.

What is the difference between giltwood and paint?

Giltwood surfaces feature applied gold leaf over a prepared base, offering a reflective and opulent appearance suited to formal spaces. Painted finishes utilise pigments directly on the wood, ranging from subtle grey tones to elaborate polychrome decoration. Both finishes require careful handling during cleaning to preserve the historic layers of material applied by the original makers.

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Carved Wood French Chairs

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These carved wood french chairs combine formal seating with centuries of regional carving traditions, offering collectors distinct profiles from revival and historic periods.