Empire Style Carved Wood and Gilded Armchair and Settee Suite

This exquisite Empire style armchair and settee suit, hand carved and rendered in a striking combination of gilded and cream-painted wood, exemplifies the grandeur of the Napoleonic era. The suite features a high, pediment-shaped backrest with intricate gilded carvings of winged griffins flanking a decorative central crest and surrounded by gilt detailing including scrollwork and geometric patterning. The stiles mimic fluted columns with acanthus leaves at the capitals. The armrests have a delicate undulation and are adorned with winged lion heads, classically symbolizing strength and power, descending with elegant scrollwork down to robust lion paw formed legs and feet. Light green silk upholstery embroidered with an urn medallion surrounded by a laurel wreath and sporadic rosettes add to the luxury embodied by this stately suite that exemplifies the opulence and authority of the Empire style.