Snail rattan armchair, France, late 19th century
This superb armchair with basket back is a jewel of weaving. Indeed, the finely wrought backrest is a proof of the excellence of the French rattan craftsmanship. The natural color of the rattan and its weaving work make it a warm and decorative piece.
Rattan furniture developed especially under the Second Empire, with the fashion of exoticism. New materials such as bamboo or rattan appeared in decoration and quickly became essential elements. After an eclipse under the Empire and the Restoration, caning reappeared under Napoleon III and was a resounding success. The Second Empire saw the manufacture of caned seats on frames made entirely of rattan. Around 1900, this furniture takes off with the decision of several French manufacturers to import massively the raw materials from China and Indochina to then realize furniture with the taste of the day always lighter and more decorative.