What is a fauteuil chair?

A fauteuil is an open-framed upholstered armchair featuring exposed wooden arms and carved supports. These elegant seats were designed primarily for formal salons during the eighteenth century. They combine structural woodwork with comfortable upholstered backrests and seats. The open sides distinguish them from enclosed bergère armchairs.

How do I identify a revival piece?

Revival pieces date from the nineteenth or twentieth centuries while imitating the distinct aesthetic of the eighteenth century. Examining the timber maturity and construction methods helps determine the actual age. Many nineteenth-century examples display exceptional carving quality that rivals older originals. Stylistic details often blend rococo curves with Victorian comforts.

What is a bergere armchair?

A bergère is a wider, enclosed armchair featuring upholstered sides filled with padding or cane work. This design provides a more enveloping and relaxed seating posture than standard open armchairs. These chairs usually include a loose, feather-filled seat cushion for added luxury. They appear frequently in both 18th-century forms and later revival suites.

Where should I place these chairs?

These seating pieces suit drawing rooms, bedrooms, and quiet reading corners where their decorative profiles can be appreciated. Pairs of armchairs anchor a fireplace or conversational grouping effectively. Their historic character adds textural contrast to modern minimalist interiors. Mixing painted frames with natural wood finishes creates visual depth in any room.