Large Louis XV Bergère Chair, 18th Century

This attractive Bergère chair, in a fiddle-shaped cabriolet, is carved from 18th-century beech.
The deeply molded crossbars of the backrests and seat, as well as the tops of the legs, feature a vigorously carved flower decoration.
The whip-shaped armrests are fitted with cuffs.
The base features an elegant curve, the moldings of which meet those of the fretted crossbars.
The generous proportions and quality of craftsmanship give this chair perfect comfort and elegance. Beautiful upholstery with floral and plant decoration

Dimensions
H. 99 cm x W. 70 cm x D. 80 cm

France – Parisian work
Beech
18th century

The term "bergère" appeared around 1725. Initially reserved for intimate rooms (bedrooms or boudoirs) as it was inherited from the 17th century "confessional armchair," the bergère chair invited relaxation. It then appeared in what we now call "the living room," a place where women would ensure greater conviviality by offering their guests comfortable seating.
Mainly inspired by the shapes and ornamentation of Louis XIV period chairs, the bergère chair was transformed into a large, enveloping armchair with full sides, meaning there was no gap between the armrests and the seat. This deep, padded seat is topped with a large removable cushion, adding to the comfort of the seat. There is no source that offers us the origin of its name. But it is possible that the name "bergère" refers to the tapestries with rural decorations depicting shepherds that were very fashionable at the beginning of the 18th century and whose seats were upholstered.