Curule chair, X-frame chair, William & Mary with its 17th-century footrest.

Curule chair, X-frame chair, William & Mary with its beech footrest. England, late 17th century, upholstered in carved velvet. A seating set comprising an X-frame armchair and its matching rectangular footrest. English work, late 17th century. An architecturally styled form derived from ancient curule seats (sella curulis), markers of power and authority. Likely constructed from beech wood, covered with a thick old finish, either varnished or brown "japanning" (lacquer), imitating precious woods. The legs, armrests, and feet have sinuous and moulded profiles. The feet are joined by turned baluster stretchers. The painted surface shows significant wear, cracks, and flaking, attesting to the piece's age. Traditional upholstery mounted on a cross-strapping, clearly visible on the underside of the seats. Covered in rich carved velvet with floral and leafy damask-style decoration, in carmine shades on a gilded green background. The edges are highlighted by a wide fringe trim in red, secured with upholstery tacks. The seat bases of the armchair and stool feature central panels in solid red fabric, designed to accommodate removable cushions covered in the same carved velvet. Exceptional condition regarding the wooden structure, with perfectly stable, solid frames suitable for daily use. Regular wear on the textile, patina of time, and slight scattered fraying. Provenance: Private collection of a British family established in France. Measurements: • Total height of the armchair: 99 cm. • Width of the armchair: 58 cm. • Seat depth of the armchair: 38 cm. • Seat height of the armchair: 45 cm. • Footprint of the armchair: 62 cm X 44 cm. • Length of the footrest: 47 cm. • Width of the footrest: 40 cm. • Height of the footrest (with cushion): 44 cm.