Armchair (fauteuil en cabriolet) (one of a pair) (part of a set) 1780 - 1790

This armchair was crafted by Jean-Baptiste-Bernard Demay in the late 18th century, a period where opulence and symbolism intertwined. The floral motifs adorning the fabric speak of nature's bounty and beauty, a common theme in art of the era. However, flowers, as symbols, have deeper roots. We see them in ancient Minoan frescoes, symbols of life and rebirth. In medieval tapestries, they represent the fleeting nature of earthly existence. The arrangement of the floral design, carefully placed on the chair, evokes a sense of harmony and order, reflecting the Enlightenment ideals of balance and reason. The gilding, reminiscent of sunlight, hints at divinity and status. This symbol has a powerful force, engaging viewers on a subconscious level, suggesting a longing for paradise or an idealized past. The cyclical progression of the flower, resurfacing and evolving across art history, reminds us that these symbols, though transformed, retain their ability to stir our souls.