A fauteuil is an open-arm upholstered chair designed in France during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Unlike enclosed armchairs, these pieces feature open wooden sides that reveal the carved framework beneath.

How do I identify Louis XVI style?

Louis XVI style pieces are defined by straight tapering legs, geometric shapes, and classical motifs such as fluting and ribbons. This aesthetic contrasts with the curved cabriole legs and asymmetrical scrolls of the earlier Louis XV period.

Were these chairs used at desks?

Specific forms known as fauteuils de bureau were constructed for writing desks and library use. These functional variants often incorporate revolving mechanisms or modified proportions to accommodate working postures.

How should I clean giltwood frames?

Giltwood surfaces require gentle dusting with a soft, dry brush to prevent damage to the delicate gold leaf. Moisture and harsh chemical cleaners must be avoided entirely to preserve the historic finish.