How do I clean cane seats?

Wipe the cane gently with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dust. Avoid soaking the material to prevent the natural fibres from becoming brittle. Allow the cane to dry completely in a well-ventilated room before using the chair again.

Can I reupholster a bergere chair?

Loose cushions on these chairs can be recovered easily to match your interior decor. The fixed upholstered portions require professional skill to preserve the surrounding cane work. Consult a specialist upholsterer if the internal padding or fabric lining needs total replacement.

Are these chairs suitable for daily use?

Most sturdy library and dining chairs handle regular seating comfortably. Lighter bedroom chairs and delicate painted pieces suit occasional sitting better. Distribute weight evenly and avoid kneeling on the woven panels to protect the cane from snapping.

How do I date a cane chair?

Examine the timber species, joinery methods, and overall styling cues to estimate the period. Revival pieces often mimic eighteenth-century designs using early twentieth-century construction techniques. Check beneath the seat frame for maker stamps, retailer labels, or tool marks that indicate the era.