Confident 1895 - 1935

Curator: Here we have a delicate watercolor illustration, most likely from between 1895 and 1935, depicting an item of furniture called "Confident Louis XVI, a 3 places," or “Confident, Louis XVI, for three people”. Editor: My first thought is that this settee looks so... polite. Reserved. I can imagine ladies with powdered wigs sitting daintily on it, whispering secrets. The colours are pastel and pretty, almost fragile, yet the design is rather imposing in its formality. Curator: That polite reserve speaks volumes! The Louis XVI style, known for its Neoclassical influences, prized order and elegance. However, “confident” in French actually implies intimacy. These pieces, intended for three sitters in close proximity, encouraged tête-à-têtes. It is published by Vve Maincent in Paris, from 'Le Garde-Meuble', which was a journal showing new fashions in furniture, decoration and other works of art. Editor: So, it's furniture designed for whispers and subtle power plays. It's so visually interesting, it presents the elite's way of interacting through the carefully chosen object—where status is intertwined with gossip, secrets, or strategies for social and political advantage. A three-way confessional in a salon, perhaps? It becomes such an extension of social behaviour, especially in pre-revolutionary times. Curator: Absolutely, especially with the material choice which is only watercolor and print. I'd also consider how the name "Confident" interacts with Louis XVI's image. Was it aspirational? Were its users truly ‘confident’ given their circumstances? The French aristocracy were well-aware of impending changes even well before the French Revolution took place. I think the artist captured not just the appearance, but some hint of psychological atmosphere too. Editor: Food for thought indeed. It invites questions not just about the design of furniture, but also the design of power, the design of influence, and ultimately the vulnerabilities lurking behind supposed confidence. Curator: Well said. Thank you for adding new perspectives to the appreciation of this fascinating piece.