Lot 1193: * A pair of Cabriolet Charret armchairs is a sophisticated expression of the Directoire style

A pair of Cabriolet Charret armchairs is a sophisticated expression of the Directoire style, embodying the elegant restraint and neoclassical purity that defined French design at the turn of the 19th century. Taking its name from the Charret heritage model, the design represents the “archaeological” phase of French cabinetry, where the sinuous curves of the Rococo were replaced by the geometric clarity of the Greco-Roman revival. The frame is a masterclass in discrete hand-carved ornamentation, eschewing heavy gilded opulence for a sober aesthetic featuring meticulously turned and fluted front legs and iconic sabre-shaped rear supports that provide a dynamic sense of movement. The backrest presents a curved rectangular profile terminating in a sweeping scroll top—a design directly inspired by the ancient Greek klismos chair. This architectural precision is complemented by a backrest of intricate artisanal wicker cane infill, prized for its airy aesthetic and ergonomic flexibility. In a bold juxtaposition of historic form and contemporary high fashion, the traditionally sprung seat—built with helical steel springs—is upholstered in the striking Azulejos fabric by Jean Paul Gaultier for Lelièvre. The vibrant, tile-inspired pattern provides a modern artistic contrast to the chair’s period-correct comfort engineering. The seat rail is characterised by a subtly sculpted apron with hand-carved rosettes serving as architectural anchors at the leg junctions. This pair represents the pinnacle of the “New Classicism,” measuring 34 inches (87 cm) in height, 22 inches (56 cm) in width, and 18 inches (48 cm) in depth.

. Established in 1812 and currently led by the eighth generation of the Allot family, Ateliers Allot is a premier French institution dedicated to the mastery of fine cabinetmaking and art furniture. As a recipient of the prestigious Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (EPV) label, the house is recognized by the French state for its rare and ancestral artisanal excellence. Every piece is meticulously handcrafted in their Brittany workshops and sourced directly from their Paris showroom on Rue de Vaugirard, offering a level of authenticity and unique artistry that stands in stark contrast to the mass-produced reproductions often found in the modern market. [Loc FR755]