A George III white-painted and parcel-gilt settee, attributed to François Hervé after a design by James Wyatt, circa 1780

Christie's New York, 24th October 2013, lot 509

The settee bears the maker’s stamp ‘FS’, which is associated with the cabinetmaker François Hervé: for example, a set of chairs by Hervé also bearing the 'FS' stamp was offered at Christie's London, 5th June 2008, lot 43. A pair of armchairs matching the present lot, with the same treatment of the legs, lower armrests and also surmounted by an anthemion, was sold at Christie’s London, 14th July 2011, lot 300. These pieces align with an armchair design attributed to architect James Wyatt, as shown in J. Cornforth and J. Fowler, English Decoration in the 18th Century, 1974, fig. 13.

Francois Hervé, an accomplished cabinet and chairmaker operating in 18th-century London, crafted furniture for the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Devonshire. Hervé’s style, exemplified in documented pieces at Chatsworth, featured a skilful blend of English and French design elements. Collaborating with renowned architects like John Carr and James Wyatt, Hervé contributed to iconic residences such as Chatsworth and Carlton House. His work demonstrated a seamless integration of aesthetics and practical construction techniques, solidifying his reputation in 18th-century furniture craftsmanship.