Jacob D R Meslée, Rare Pair Of Empire Period Stamped Curules.

Rare pair of curule stools in mahogany and mahogany veneer, Empire period, stamped JACOB D R MESLÉE, association between Georges Jacob and his son François Honoré Georges Jacob Desmalter between 1803 and 1813.

Very beautiful model decorated with bundles of palmettes on feet taking the form of rounded "X", joined by a spacer with double inverted pears.

This Curule model is directly inspired by the symbol of ancient Rome.
The sella curulis or curule is the official seat of several Roman magistrates. Among the attributions of these dignitaries, figured in particular that of dispensing justice. However, this was made seated by the magistrate: on a platform, the curule chair was placed on which sat the person to whom the office of officer fell.
Justice, raising of troops, taking of the auspices, so many actions that were taken in a seated position.
Julius Caesar was given the right to use the curule anywhere, but he was accused of aspiring to royalty for sitting in the presence of the Senate.

The superiority of the emperor is revealed in details: among the consuls, the emperor remained seated on the curule. During the emperor's funeral, his effigy was placed on a curule chair.

The sella curulis, in Roman antiquity, is always square in shape, supported by curved legs. Two models coexist:
-Either the feet are parallel and straight -Either the feet are made in X, like pincers.
The antique "curule" has no backrest or arms.

As legal actions, for example, can be carried out anywhere, the curule chair is made to be extremely maneuverable.

The shape of this seat was taken over by the Directoire style at the beginning of the 19th century, particularly under the 1st Empire, where Napoleon intended it in particular for these marshals.

The "pincer" shape of this pair of curules is particularly rare and sought after, similar examples can be seen in the palaces of Fontainebleau, Compiègne and Malmaison.

Very good state of conservation, perfect stability (without reinforcement).
Horsehair trim, very beautiful upholstery in perfect condition.

Empire period, 1805-1810

Stamped JACOB D R MESLÉE (1803-1813).

DIMENSIONS:
Height 44cm
Length 45cm
Width 38.5cm

Ref: 24AVR45ERO