Pair Of Louis XVI Gilt Cane Vanity Chairs With Gondola Backrests, 19th Century

A pair of exquisite Louis XVI style vanity chairs, with lightweight, caned oval- shaped seats and extravagant wraparound gallery backrests. These chairs are wonderful examples of French craftsmanship, featuring intricate carving in the form of acanthus plumes on each scrolled armrest and in an exquisite 'lyre' shape at the centre back. The gallery armrest railing is edged on its upper band with string-of-pearls beading and on its lower an egg and dart trim. Connecting the two are beautifully turned spindles in the form of miniature vases. The comfortable and generously sized cane seats feature egg and dart trim all around, interrupted by plinths with rosettes above each of four tapered and fluted legs. The gilt finish is beautifully aged, giving these chairs fabulous character.