Empire Jacob Frères Mahogany Office Armchair Carved Rams Heads 19th Century

Rare office armchair attributed to Jacob Frères* in mahogany and mahogany veneer, concave back, armrests ending in sculpted rams' heads, double baluster front legs and saber rear legs, from the First Empire period at the beginning of the 19th century. This armchair is in good condition and is of exceptional quality. The trim is later (a little worn). The rams' heads sculpted at the end of the armrests are a particularity of the late Directory-early Empire period (just like the heads of lions or leopards) (Cf "the French Siege" by Jarry and Devinoy). Please note: cracks and traces of restoration on the two rear legs (see last photos), some scratches and tiny dents on the mahogany (especially on the bottom of the front legs), wear and tear, look carefully at the photos. * Jacob: Georges Jacob is the most famous and prolific of all the seat carpenters of the 18th century in France. From the reign of Louis XV until the Consulate he produced an incalculable quantity of seats of all types and styles and a certain number of pieces of furniture. At the forefront of its wealthy clientele is the royal family. The work of Georges Jacob is immense. By the number, by the quality, by the diversity, by the innovations which make this master a true precursor. (excerpt from “French furniture of the 18th century” by P.Kjellberg). JACOB. Dynasty of carpenters and cabinetmakers active from the reign of Louis XV to the Restoration. Georges (1739-1814) was made a master in 1765, he created numerous seats, first rocaille, then neo-classical. Georges Jacob Fils (1768-1803) and his brother François-Honoré (1770-1841) continued the family business on rue Meslée under the Directory. François-Honoré associates his name with that of Desmalter after the death of his older brother. In collaboration with the painter David, Jacob Desmalter created new models inspired by antiquity, supplied to the Imperial Court. Georges Alphonse, his son, will serve the Restoration. PLEASE NOTE: FOR A DELIVERY QUOTE CONTACT US WITH CITY AND COUNTRY OF DESTINATION. BE CAREFUL: PLEASE CONTACT US FOR THE DELIVERY PRICE. Dimensions: seat 48.5 cm x 49 cm approx. / height 49 cm Height: 78 cm / armrests 75 cm Width: at the armrests 61.5 cm Reference: 200 57 All photos are on: www.antiques-delaval.com