A Louis XVI gilt-wood salon suite by Jean-Baptiste Boulard circa 1780

the oval backs and bowed seats upholstered in late 18th century Aubusson tapestry depicting pastoral figures on each back and scenes from the Fables of La Fontaine on each seat, all woven within landscape settings and floral swags and surrounds on cream grounds, on stop fluted turned tapering legs, stamped J B BOULARD

Good overall condition, though the gilding is dirty and has wear and chips. The upholstery is in sound condition but it faded and worn in places. Colours overall darker in reality than in the photograph. Stable restored condition overall. Some reweaving. See terracotta coloured areas which are later rewoven repair. Splits to seat of one, showing linen lining underneath. To discuss this lot in greater detail please call Edward Rising or David Macdonald on 0207 293 5107 or 0207 293 5507.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Jean-Baptiste Boulard, maitre in 1754, received various commissions for Versailles, Tuileries, Fontainbleau and Saint Cloud, including a suite of thirty six chairs for the Salon des Jeux in Versailles.  Examples of his work can be seen at Versailles, the Louvre and the Wallace Collection, London.

The tapestry subject matter depicting scenes from the Fables by Jean de la Fontaine (1621-1755), were originally taken largely from those by Aesop. They were popular and suitable subjects for seat furniture upholstery. Jean-Baptiste Oudry (1686-1755), who was director of the Beauvais manufactory from 1734-1753, produced a series of 275 drawings which were completed between 1729 and 1734 and published by Montenault in four volumes between 1755-1760. The Aubusson manufactory interpreted this popular subject for seat furniture and combined it with pastoral scenes, to great success.