An Italian Brown and Orange Lacquered and Parcel-Gilt ‘Chinoiserie’ Bergère and Stool, ca. 1900





This bergère armchair, together with its stool, results from a free and eclectic interpretation of Chinese-inspired motifs, in particular the leiwen, or “thunder” pattern, a kind of meander that begins here at the feet and whose returns meet on the apron, where they are surmounted by a gilt chrysanthemum. The scrolled armrests end in a gilt motif resembling the corolla of a lily of the valley. It appears to be a late production, probably Italian, dating from the late 19th or early 20th century. The upholstery, imitating leopard skin, is modern, and both the armchair and the stool have undergone restoration.