Offering a rare museum Louis XVI style side chair by L. Marcotte & Co., New York, 1824-1887. Leon Alexandre Marcotte emigrated to the United States from France and settled in New York City in 1848, where he became a very successful cabinetmaker and decorator to the affluent elite of New York. Created circa 1860.

This important Gilded Age chair features an ebonized wood frame with gilt bronze surmounts. Possessing fluted legs, shield back and tufted upholstery. It is adorned with an abundance of high quality bronze ormolu, I counted thirty one individual pieces including three distinct patterns of linear pieces of bead and ribbon decoration. The most I’ve ever seen in a side chair. None are missing. The original bronze casters still present. 

This chair is attributed with confidence and references to Leon Marcotte who was one of the top furniture makers of the mid 19th century. 

The Metropolitan Museum Of Art, New York possesses as part of it's permanent collection, a parlor suite by Leon Marcotte. Please see Photo #11, one can clearly see it's side chair, bearing similar and exact design elements as the chair being offered here. Their chair was refinished.

Also, an identical side chair was part of an elaborate parlor suite on exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum about twenty years ago. Also, at about that time the trade newspaper, Antiques And The Arts Weekly was highlighting Marcotte’s work in an edition that included a photo of the set on it’s cover. 

Measuring: 36 3/4” Tall, 20 1/2” Wide, 23” Deep.

The condition is near mint. Only a small wood split to the front near a piece of ormolu to mention. It is tight and must have happened a long time ago. A few minor chipping and rubs to the ebonized finish. Minor issues considering a chair of 160 years of age. The piece is solid and complete with no missing parts. Upholstery appears to be original and shows some wear. I suspect the original horse hair stuffing is still with the piece.The black fabric under seat may be a replacement. Please see photos.

This chair was purchased from a fine estate in Albany, New York. many years ago. 

Please see my other listings. I am selling my lifetime collections of fine antiques.