Pair of Napoleon III Armchairs in Heavy Green Linen by Rose Uniacke

A pair of French Napoleon III armchairs, c.1870, newly upholstered in a heavy olive-green linen with a pronounced, slubby basketweave. The chairs are in the classic Napoleon III manner: a generous, gently curved back, softly scrolled arms and a deep, wide seat. Together they have the relaxed, enveloping proportions that make this model so sought after for a sitting room or bedroom.

The upholstery is smart and crisp throughout, with neat tailoring to the arm fronts and a tidy self-finish around the seat rail. The green sits between moss and olive, and the slubbed weave catches the light beautifully. It is a rich, grounded colour that works easily with both traditional and contemporary schemes.

The show-wood frames are in walnut, with a moulded seat rail, block corners and turned, tapering front legs. They stand on their original brass and ceramic castors, which allow the chairs to be moved easily.

Both chairs are comfortable, sturdy and ready to use. The frames show light surface wear commensurate with age, with some small marks and rubbing to the legs and rail.