Louis XV Armchairs by Jean-René Nadal l'Ainé

This impressive pair of French armchairs displays the splendor and elegance of the Louis XV period. Crafted by the famed ébéniste Jean-René Nadal l'Ainé (1733-1783), the chairs are exquisitely constructed with graceful, curving lines and elegant Neoclassical ornamentation. With their blue and white fabric that complements the white of the wood, they perfectly reflect the style in France during the reign of King Louis XV. It is rare to find two matching armchairs from this period, particularly by such an exceptional maker, making this set a remarkable find. 

Jean-René Nadal l'Ainé was renowned for his high quality and opulently carved furniture in the Louis XV and Louis XVI styles. Born into an important cabinetmaking family, he quickly rose to prominence in his own right, becoming primarily a furniture maker for the Crown as well as for the Comte d'Artois. These exceptional armchairs, almost certainly made for a client of great importance, bears all of the hallmarks of this celebrated ébéniste. A similar armchair by Nadal that was once held at Versailles is currently in the collection of the Musée du Louvre.

Signed "Nadal L'Aine" under upholstery

Circa 1760

27" wide x 27" deep x 39" high