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Lot Essay
The clean and simple lines of the scrolled crest-rail, the pierced palmette ornament, the scroll-carved back splat and the square tapering legs - also called à l'étrusque - is reminiscent of the French Directoire style of the late 18th century. This angular and severe transitional style inspired by the Greco-Roman taste was particulary appreciated in the French part of Switzerland, probably not only because of France's political and cultural domination, but also because of the circulation in Europe of the design drawings entitled Collection des Meubles et Objets de Goût published in Paris from 1796 to 1830 by Pierre Antoine Leboux de la Mésangère (1761-1831).
The Swiss interpretation of this style stands out for its comfort, the attractiveness of line, the simplicity of ornament, the use of cherry wood or walnut instead of preciuos wood like mahogany and the lack of fashionable upholstery.
The Swiss interpretation of this style stands out for its comfort, the attractiveness of line, the simplicity of ornament, the use of cherry wood or walnut instead of preciuos wood like mahogany and the lack of fashionable upholstery.