Paris, circa 1770-1790

Made by Claude II Sene

Painted beechwood and metal mechanism

Stamped: C*SENE

This desk chair has an arched backrest, channeled frame, and padded armrests ending in scrolled terminals. The circular upholstered seat is set on a swiveling mechanism supported on molded seat-rails, raised on cabriole legs headed by paterae, with toupie feet. The large size, imaginative form and mechanical ingenuity of this chair make it a very rare survival. The Sene were one of the most prominent families of menusiers, well known for their innovative design and fine craftsmanship. Claude II Sene, called the Younger, received his maitrise in 1769. Working in collaboration with the carvers Ambroise, Vinceneux, Cherin, and Berier he obtained several commissions for the royal houses including several stools for Compiegne.