What is a French style armchair?

A French style armchair is a historic seat featuring exposed carved wood, cabriole legs, and upholstered padding. These chairs reflect historical design periods such as Louis XV and the Empire style. They function as decorative and practical seating within living rooms, bedrooms, and reading corners. Their sculptural wooden frames provide distinct visual character to an interior space.

How do I identify Louis XV style chairs?

Louis XV style chairs exhibit asymmetric curves, scrolling leaf motifs, and graceful cabriole legs. The woodwork avoids straight lines in favour of flowing organic shapes. Makers utilised walnut, beech, and giltwood for these frames, often pairing them with open arms or fully upholstered bergere backs.

What is a caned window seat?

A caned window seat is a low bench featuring woven cane panels across the seat or backrest. These pieces were designed to sit beneath windows in bedrooms and hallways. The woven cane provides a lightweight, flexible surface while introducing textural contrast against the solid giltwood or painted wooden frame.

How should I care for giltwood seating?

Giltwood seating requires protection from direct sunlight and excessive moisture to preserve the delicate gold leaf surface. Dust the carved wooden frames gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid liquid cleaners and abrasive cloths, which can strip the thin metallic leaf from the underlying gesso and wood structure.