19th Century French Louis XVI Canapé ~ Settee is an exceptionally fine and rare example hand carved in oak with a depth and quality of craftsmanship seldom encountered.  The carved frame is extraordinary in its detail and execution, the crest rail adorned with an elaborate central cartouche of intertwined foliage, ribbons and floral garlands cascading across the full width of the back. The arms carry richly carved figural and foliate decoration, and the apron below is worked continuously with swags, scrolls and classical ornament of remarkable precision.  Acanthus carved legs complete the frame with characteristic Louis XVI formality. Upholstered in a blue silk damask of large scale floral and foliate pattern, the fabric complementing the warmth of the carved oak frame beautifully.
The 19th century in France was defined in great part by a passionate revival of the great decorative styles of the 18th century. French manufacturers and craftsmen of the period looked back to the reigns of Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI with enormous admiration, reviving and reinterpreting those styles with the full force of 19th century craftsmanship and ambition.  The results were often extraordinary, combining historical fidelity with a vitality and technical accomplishment that stand entirely on their own terms.  This canapé is a superb example of that tradition, the Louis XVI style reborn in the hands of 19th century craftsmen at the height of their art.
Circa 1860s
Measures 45H x 64W x 29D; seat 21H
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Available for pickup at our Dallas Design District Showroom in Dallas Texas