What is a bergere chair?

A bergere chair is a French upholstered armchair characterised by closed upholstered sides between the armrest and the seat. It provides a deeper and more enclosed sit than an open armchair. Most examples include a loose down or feather cushion resting on a webbed or caned base. The style originated to protect sitters from drafts in large rooms.

How do I spot a revival piece?

Revival pieces from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries often display machine tooling marks on hidden frame components or modern secondary woods beneath the finish. Their proportions can also feel slightly heavier than eighteenth-century originals. Examining the construction joints and wear patterns helps determine whether a chair dates to the original neoclassical period or subsequent revival movements.

Where should I place these chairs?

These chairs suit formal sitting rooms, libraries, and bedrooms where their enclosed profiles create distinct reading or conversation zones. Pairing them with a window seat or footstool extends their function. Because of their decorative backs, they sit well away from walls where their carved frames and finished woodwork remain visible from all angles.

Are caned seats durable?

Caned seats woven from rattan provide resilient and flexible support that withstands regular use if kept from drying out. They require careful handling to avoid puncturing the woven strands. Many chairs supplement the caned frame with a removable upholstered cushion for added comfort and protection during daily seating.