Folding stool (pliant) (one of a pair)
Unknown Artist
ca. 1735–39
Medium
Carved and gilded walnut; silk velvet with gold trim (not original)
Dimensions
H. 17-3/4 x W. 23 x D. 16-1/2 in. (45.1 x 58.4 x 41.9 cm)
Classification
Woodwork-Furniture
Culture
French, Paris
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 1971
Accession Number
1971.206.9
Art Historical Context
This exquisite folding stool, known as a *pliant*, hails from Paris around 1735–39, during the lavish reign of Louis XV. Crafted from carved and gilded walnut, it stands just 17¾ inches high when folded, with a seat width of 23 inchesperfect for intimate aristocratic gatherings. The original silk velvet upholstery with gold trim has been, but the frame's intricate carvings evoke the opulent Rococo style, characterized by flowing, naturalistic motifs typical of Parisian workshops. In 18th-century French high society, *pliants* were essential furniture for salons and royal courts like Versaille...