French Louis XIII Style Turned Walnut Dining Chairs and Armchairs, Set of Eight, Circa 1880

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An exceptional and remarkably complete set of eight French Louis XIII style dining chairs, comprising six side chairs and two … Read more An exceptional and remarkably complete set of eight French Louis XIII style dining chairs, comprising six side chairs and two armchairs, crafted in solid walnut during the late 19th century, circa 1880.

The set is distinguished by its architectural silhouettes and beautifully executed turned walnut construction, characteristic of the 19th-century French revival of the Louis XIII aesthetic. Each chair features a tall rectangular upholstered back above a generously proportioned seat, supported by boldly turned legs and uprights joined by multiple turned stretchers. The two armchairs retain their sculptural open arms supported by turned baluster-form uprights, giving the pair a particularly handsome presence at either end of a dining table.

Especially desirable is the survival of the coordinated period upholstery. The seats and backs combine warm golden-brown velvet with decorative woven textile panels displaying a subtle multicolored geometric motif in muted tones of sage, ochre, rose and blue. Traditional decorative nailhead trim follows the perimeter of the upholstered backs and reinforces the historic character of the ensemble.

The walnut has developed a warm, rich patina that complements the softly aged colors and texture of the fabric. The combination creates a sophisticated decorative effect equally suited to a traditional French interior or as an architectural counterpoint within a contemporary dining room.

A handsome and increasingly difficult-to-find complete French antique dining suite, combining Louis XIII Revival design, turned walnut craftsmanship, original period textile upholstery and late 19th-century French decorative arts.

This set is in very nice antique condition with only minor surface wear consistent with age and use. The photos accurately depict the condition. See less