Lyre Chair from the Louis XVI Period, Stamped GAY

  
Louis XVI Lyre Chair stamped GAY. This work from the Louis XVI period, stamped GAY, features white lacquered wooden chairs with an openwork backrest decorated with a central lyre motif. The uprights of the backrest are fluted columns with capitals. The apron is highlighted by a fine molding that connects floral corner blocks supporting four tapered and fluted legs. Note: there is an old restoration on the rear left leg. The upholstery is new, made of a magnificent brocade silk. The appearance of the lyre backrest is part of the revival of antique forms during the reign of Louis XVI, marked by the rediscovery of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Inspired by Roman curule chairs, the stylized lyre emphasizes the delicacy of the decoration without ever compromising sobriety.

The Lyre chair transcends its time and remains one of the most emblematic models of the Louis XVI style. GAY (Jacques), a furniture carpenter, became a master in Paris on June 23, 1779. He signed GAV (the last letter of his mark resembling a V rather than a Y).

In the Louvre Museum, there is a precious child's armchair, richly carved and gilded, for the eldest son of Louis XVI. In the bathroom of the Palace of Versailles, there are two oval back chairs bearing the stamp of this master. Works by the same author were part of the furnishings of the Marquis de Noailles at the Château de Champlâtreux.