Pair of side chairs (chaises à la reine) 1747 - 1765

Michel Gourdin’s *Pair of Side Chairs (Chaises à la Reine)*, dating from 1747-1765, showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of 18th-century French furniture. The chairs, which are part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, boast intricate gilded frames and upholstery featuring a delicate floral and bird motif. The elegant curves and graceful lines of the chairs are characteristic of the Rococo style, a movement that emphasized asymmetry and natural forms. These chairs, known as "chaises à la reine" (Queen's chairs), were designed for comfort and sophistication, reflecting the refined taste of the French aristocracy during the reign of Louis XV.