An Empire Seating Group

attributed to cabinet-maker JACOB-DESMALTER in Paris c. 1805/15, mahogany veneered hardwood frames in bergère form, consisting of: a pair of armchairs, a pair of chairs, front legs partly with gilded swan decor, stylised lion paws, upholstery of a later date, delicately executed bronze ornamental fittings, height of backrests c. 86/87 cm and 82 cm, height of seats c. 42/43 cm, some paint losses, signs of age and use. (DOC)
The swan decor is based on designs by PERCIER and FONTAINE and quickly became the favourite symbol of Empress Josephine (wife of Napoleon I). Thus, it soon also became a central component of JACOB-DESMALTER's (1770-1841) furniture repertoire, who was the main supplier of Napoleon's furniture. These designs also influenced the seating furniture of the Russian Empire, which often featured armrests with swan decorations.

Cf Lit.:
Denise Ledoux-Lebard, Les Ébénistes du XIX siècle, p. 335, Les éditions de l' Amateur Paris 1984, 1989, 2000.