Medallion Back Salon Chairs
These medallion back salon chairs offer formal seating derived from French neoclassical design, bringing curved wooden frames and upholstered oval backs to reception rooms.
Medallion Back Salon Chairs
Medallion back salon chairs provide formal seating defined by their characteristic circular or oval wooden frames, designed for drawing rooms and reception spaces from the eighteenth century through to the Edwardian period.
The selections available here range widely in age and origin, spanning eighteenth-century French giltwood armchairs, nineteenth-century Victorian rococo revival seating, and early twentieth-century Louis XVI revival pairs.
Buyers will encounter various configurations including single armchairs, pairs of open armchairs, and larger matched sets such as dining chairs or five-piece salon suites.
How they were made
Frame construction relies predominantly on carved timber, utilising walnut, giltwood, and painted wood finished with gold paint or gilded timber details.
Upholstery techniques involve traditional textiles including velvet, standard fabric, and tapestry upholstery stretched over padded oval backs and seats.
The listings span from the 18th century through the Edwardian era, featuring walnut, giltwood, and painted wood frames.
What varies in quality
The refinement of the carved wooden frame dictates much of the distinction between standard production and superior examples, particularly in the crispness of neoclassical details.
The integrity of the original giltwood or painted finish alongside the authenticity of the period upholstery materials establishes the overall calibre of the piece.
The Medallion Back Salon Chairs Glossary
- Giltwood
- Timber treated with gold leaf or a gold-coloured finish. This surface treatment appears frequently on formal French seating.
- Fauteuil
- An open-armed upholstered armchair with exposed wooden arms. These chairs were designed for formal domestic interiors.
- Salon Suite
- A matched set of seating furniture intended for a reception room. These suites typically include armchairs and side chairs sharing identical decoration.
Medallion Back Salon Chairs: Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I place medallion back salon chairs?
These chairs suit formal reception rooms, drawing rooms, or bedrooms where their distinct oval frames can function as focal points.
They pair effectively with central tables or as matching side seating rather than heavy everyday lounging furniture.
How do I identify Louis XVI style pieces?
Louis XVI style seating is distinguished by straight tapered legs, neoclassical carved motifs, and geometric framing.
Unlike curved rococo forms, these chairs emphasise symmetry and architectural restraint.
Are these chairs comfortable for daily use?
Salon chairs were originally designed for formal entertaining and conversation rather than relaxed lounging.
Their upright backs and firm period upholstery encourage an upright posture.
How do I care for antique giltwood frames?
Giltwood surfaces require gentle dusting with a dry, soft cloth to prevent abrasion to the delicate gold leaf.
Avoid liquid cleaners and direct sunlight, which can degrade historical finishes over time.