Placed under the burning logs, andirons, or firedogs, allow the air to circulate under the wood and to fan the flames. An andiron consists of an iron bar on which the logs are placed, and a decorative head. In French, they are called “chenets”, a noun coming from the word “dog”, that refers to the […]
Category: Style

Charles X style
Charles X style lasted from 1818 to 1834, partly during the reign of Charles X, comte d’Artois, during the Bourbon Restoration. One of the main features is the softening of shapes from the Empire style, as pieces of furniture were curvier. Dimensions were decreased so that pieces of furniture could fit smaller appartments. Comfort was […]

Directoire style
The Directoire style, which takes place from 1789 to 1804, is concurrent with the French Revolution, the Directory and the beginning of the Consulate. The period thus inherits a certain classicism, particularly through references to Antiquity both concerning the motifs and the rectilinear and geometric forms. The curule seats become for example a popular model. […]

Louis-Philippe style
Under the reign of Louis-Philippe I, the decorative arts, especially goldsmithery and furniture, have its glory days. Jacob-Desmalter and Bellanger take part in the diffusion of this new opulent style which seduces quickly the new bourgeoisie. Imposing and massive furniture with an important comfort and practice research characterizes the style. The chest of drawers and […]

Orientalism
Linked to the current political events with the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the colonization, Orientalism grows during the 19th century and is characterized by an important occidental interest for foreign lands. First very present in literature and painting, Orientalism, thanks to the World’s fairs, soon inspires architecture and decorative arts, and gives a […]