Pair of Guillerme et Chambron "Catherine" Armchairs, France 20th century (sold)
Pair of Guillerme et Chambron "Catherine" Armchairs, France 20th century (sold)
The collaboration of Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron was destined to be as influential as it is prolific. Votre Maison - the duo’s own company - left an indelible stamp on the design of the 1950s, 60s and 70s as a result of the visual and material quality of their pieces, as well as the distinctiveness of their designs.
This pair of 'Catherine' armchairs have an open oaken construction, featuring masterfully crafted lines. As this model’s features show, the designers’ focus was as keenly attuned to their pieces' functionality — their use in daily life — as to the creation of innovative design. From the duo’s trademark oak frame, to the sculptural legs, arms and backrest, this model is characteristic of Guillerme et Chambron's unique style, while also featuring details that are one-of-a-kind. The back is composed of sculpted oak spindles, standing detached from the arms. The armrests are carved with great precision to serve a double purpose: an aesthetic role, and a functional one. The chairs' sides each feature a cupholder on the frame, for added convenience and aiding in the easy character of this pair. Thanks to the ergonomic curves and thick, comfortable upholstered seat and back cushions, these chairs are perfect for cosy lounging. The bouclé’s texture also stands out beautifully next to the smooth surface of the oak.
It is the woodworking that truly shows the overall quality of these chairs, the frame is refined and the attention paid to the smallest detail shows the design and manufacturing skills of Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron. This model visually represents the very reason Guillerme et Chambron significantly influenced French design history.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.13 in W x 29.13 in D x 31.10 in H; Seat height 15.75 in; Seat depth 19.09 cm; Arm height 21.85 in
74 cm W x 74 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 48.5 cm ; Arm height 55.5 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron established Votre Maison in 1949 together with cabinetmaker Émile Dariosecq, and developed a distinctive body of French furniture during the post-war decades. Their work is particularly associated with solid oak, sculptural woodworking and upholstered seating, with the wooden structure often remaining clearly visible as an important part of the design. This pair of armchairs from the 1960s brings these characteristics together through expressive oak frames and generously upholstered seats and backs.
The chairs are built from solid oak frames with a particularly distinctive construction at the back. A series of vertical wooden spindles follows the curved outline of each backrest, creating an open framework that remains fully visible from behind. The spindles vary in their angle and position, giving the rear of the chairs a strong architectural rhythm while supporting the wide upholstered back cushions. These cushions curve along the backs and are finished with button tufting, adding depth to the textured striped fabric. Broad seat cushions sit above the upholstered lower sections, creating a comfortable body within the exposed wooden structure. The armrests have a gently shaped profile and extend forward to meet thick upright supports, which continue downward into curved front legs. Their rounded surfaces highlight the natural grain and warm tone of the oak. At the rear, the lower ends of the frame curve outward into small feet, adding another carved detail to the silhouette. The muted red, beige and cream tones of the upholstery complement the oak while allowing the elaborate woodworking to remain in focus.
The pair shows why Guillerme et Chambron’s seating is so recognisable within French design of the period. Their furniture gave traditional cabinetmaking a highly individual character through carved oak, unusual structural solutions and an emphasis on comfort. These armchairs are particularly effective as a pair as their open spindle backs make them interesting from every direction.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items have minor marks, scratches, dents and discolouration. The cushions have recently been reupholstered in in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
30.31 in W x 29.92 in D x 33.46 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 20.07 in; Arm height 21.25 in
77 cm W x 76 cm D x 85 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 51 cm; Arm height 54 cm