Armchair (Fauteuil à la reine)

Art Historical Context

This elegant armchair, known as a *fauteuil à la reine*, was crafted in Paris around 1785 by Georges Jacob, one of the foremost *menuisiers* (cabinetmakers) of late eighteenth-century France. Created during the reign of Louis XVI, the piece reflects the refined tastes of the French court and aristocracy just before the Revolution. Its graceful proportions and classical detailing embody the shift toward neoclassical design, favoring symmetry and antique-inspired motifs over the earlier rococo exuberance. Jacob’s masterful carving and gilding of the beech frame highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of Parisian workshops. The gilt surfaces catch light beautifully, emphasizing delicate floral garlands and fluted legs that evoke ancient Roman architecture. Although the silk upholstery has been replaced over time, the chair’s original luxurious intent remains clear, designed for comfort and display in grand interiors. Today housed in the Metropolitan Museum’s European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection, this armchair offers visitors a tangible connection to the elegance and artistry of pre-Revolutionary France.