This rare armchair, often referred to as a ‘bridge chair’ is among the most sculptural works of the French designers. “Fauteuil bridge” from France are generally lightweight chairs, often part of a set of matching chairs and bridge table. Bridge chairs were originally designed in the late 1930s for ladies for leisure activities, such as for games of bridge, afternoon tea, and gossiping. As this bridge chair exhibits, the models are stylish, of small proportions, well-made, and extremely comfortable.

With an interesting open construction, this chair’s frame is very distinctive; the arms have a curvature that flows into the legs in the front, thus the straight lines of the legs in the back and backrest are broken by the flowing shape of the armrests. The backrest is unattached to the seat, which creates a feeling of weightlessness, that is further amplified by the light upholstery. Another distinctive feature is the pair of stretchers set parallel between the front and the back legs. These stretchers brace and hold together the two legs giving structural firmness. The back legs are slightly tapered and connect directly to the back. The structure’s details are enhanced by the beautiful contrast between the blonde oak frame and the elegant light fabric of the upholstery. The back and seat cushions are in an understated rectangular shape, leaving the focus on the wooden body.

The woodworking truly shows the overall quality of this chair, the frame is refined and the attention to the smallest details shows the design and manufacturing skills of Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron. This model was created at their workshop, Votre Maison, during the 1960s.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in light bouclé fabric.

Dimensions:

23.62 in W x 23.22 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 17.71 in

60 cm W x 59 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 45 cm

About the designer:

Robert Guillerme graduated in 1934 from the École Boule where he excelled in architecture and furniture design. After the Second World War he moved to Lille, in the north of France, where he decorated homes and designed furniture for the well regarded Rogier workshops. 

In 1948, Guillerme was joined by his long-time friend, decorator Jacques Chambron in Lille. The following year Guillerme and Chambron met master cabinet maker Émile Dariosecq, owner of a woodworking shop and the company Votre Maison was born. Together, they defined and imposed a new furniture concept. Thanks to their distinctive creativity, originality, and quality, the Votre Maison quickly became well-known. 

The Votre Maison marked the history of French design. Guillerme drew the furniture designs while Chambron played the part of salesman, welcoming and advising clients. The power duo was complemented by Dariosecq, whose workshop took charge of the manufacturing. Together, they defined new furnishings concepts. Well-crafted chair back, polished wood and thick cushions make the reputation of their armchairs and sofas. Votre Maison continued to produce furniture right into the Twentieth Century, with Jacques’ son Hervé Chambron, a designer and graduate of the Ecole Boulle, having taken the reins in 1983. ~H.