Ten French Antique Satinwood Side Chairs – Charles X Period

A superb set of ten French antique satinwood side chairs from the Charles X period, these early 19th-century examples epitomise the refined elegance distinctive to this transitional era. Beautifully veneered on mahogany, the chairs embody French craftsmanship and sophisticated design, making them perfect additions to both period and contemporary dining rooms.

Origin: France

Date: Circa 1825

Material: Satinwood veneered on mahogany, with brass castors

Dimensions: Height: 85 cm (33.5 in); Width: 45 cm (17.7 in); Depth: 37 cm (14.5 in)

Condition: Very fine, with minor restorations consistent with age

These antique side chairs are closely associated with the Charles X period, a time when French furniture design moved away from the exuberance of Empire styling towards lighter, more lyrical forms. Pieces featuring satinwood veneer were highly prized for their warmth and lustre, frequently found in important collections and showcased in French decorative arts museums. The lyre-shaped splats and elegant curves are hallmarks of the period, echoing chairs created for distinguished Parisian households.

Notable Features:

• Crafted with exceptional detail, each chair showcases curved backs and lyre splats, coupled with outswept rear legs and gracefully carved cabriole front legs enhanced by acanthus and foliate motifs.
• The use of satinwood veneer on a mahogany frame not only adds visual richness but also demonstrates the high skill of early 19th-century French cabinetmakers.
• Design elements such as the elegant curvature of both front and rear legs, and the inclusion of terminating brass castors, reflect the stylistic shift towards refined yet practical forms during the Charles X era.
• This matching set of ten French antique satinwood side chairs is increasingly rare, offering both investment and aesthetic appeal for collectors, decorators, and those seeking to furnish a period dining space with authenticity.

The striking combination of expert craftsmanship, period-appropriate materials, and classical lines makes these chairs highly desirable. Suitable for immediate placement in a formal dining room or as distinctive accent seating, they provide both historical presence and practical utility. Whether forming the centrepiece of a collectors’ display or enhancing the atmosphere of an elegant dining area, these Charles X satinwood side chairs offer an unmissable opportunity to acquire a piece of French decorative history.