What is a Gainsborough armchair?

A Gainsborough armchair is a wide, upholstered seat with padded armrests and exposed wooden legs, designed during the eighteenth century for libraries and writing desks. These chairs combine supportive backrests with open sides that allowed eighteenth-century dress styles to fit comfortably between the arms.

How do I identify a French fauteuil?

A fauteuil is characterised by an exposed carved wooden frame, open upholstered arms, and an aesthetic originating in France during periods like the Louis XV and Restauration eras. The woodwork often displays intricate floral carvings or giltwood finishes surrounding the padded elements.

What woods were used for frames?

Chair frames were constructed from timbers such as mahogany, walnut, beech, oak, and rosewood, depending on the period and regional workshop traditions. Cabinetmakers selected these hardwoods for their structural strength and capacity to hold detailed hand-carved ornamentation.

How should I place an open armchair?

These armchairs suit placement in studies, living rooms, and bedrooms as reading seats or desk chairs where their decorative wooden frames remain visible. Their open sides prevent rooms from feeling crowded while offering functional seating support.