Exceptional series of 6 Louis XV armchairs

6 Fauteuils à la Reine
by René Cresson (circa 1705-before 1745)
known as Cresson l'aîné, Master in 1738

Paris circa 1740, Carved natural walnut
H. 98 cm x W. 71 cm x D. 60 cm

The Cressons formed one of the greatest French dynasties of chair carpenters in the 18th century. Cresson l'aîné was the first to sign his works; having died at around 40, he is also the one whose production is the rarest. His creations represent a sort of transition between the Louis XIV and Louis XV periods and are distinguished by their nobility of lines and proportions. His carving is deep and richly executed, and his hand is particularly recognizable by the clasps and lively projections that adorn the belts and backs, as in this series.

The exceptional nature of this series lies in a combination of four remarkable characteristics:

Large series of armchairs, six or more, are rare today, having often been separated.
This is a model with a wide seat and a flat back, very richly carved.
The condition of the six shafts is particularly good, with no dented legs, and no crosspieces changed or resoled.
All six armchairs are signed on their back crosspieces by a great master carpenter from the first half of the 18th century.

The lines of these chairs are perfectly drawn. The backs are slightly higher than they are wide, and their upper crosspieces are well-supported and richly carved. The arch of the legs is vigorous but remains moderate for this early Louis XV period. Note the superb treatment of the legs, with a sculpture in the shape of an enveloping hoof, with a triple ball. This particular decoration is also found on the legs of Nicolas Heurtaut. Finally, the crosspieces are particularly well crafted with the rich staples unique to Cresson l'Ainé.

These seats have just undergone a complete restoration, both in terms of carpentry and upholstery, by the finest skilled craftsmen we have. The fabric is made by Rubelli and the trimmings are custom-made.