Conservation work for these two marquises stamped by Claude I Sené.
Claude I Sené (1724-1792), son of Jean Sené, obtained his master craftsman's certificate in 1743 in Paris and worked in the same workshop as his brother-in-law, the cabinetmaker Jean-Etienne Saint-Georges, on the rue de Cléry, under the sign "du Grand Saint-Georges." His output includes numerous Louis XV chairs but very few Louis XVI pieces. Claude Sené ceased practicing his trade in 1780. He was the father of two other renowned chair makers, Jean-Baptiste Claude and Claude II.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
- French Furniture of the 18th Century – Pierre Kjellberg – Les Editions de l'Amateur – 2002
- Cabinetmakers of the 18th Century – Count François de Salverte – Art and History Publishers – 1934
- The art and craft of French master cabinetmakers in the 18th century – Jean Nicolay – Pygmalion edition – 1976
The restoration/conservation work therefore consisted of reattaching all the joints by injecting poison glue, reinforcing them, and in some cases, recreating elements of the upholstery rebate so that it would be strong enough to be reupholstered. A few missing moldings and decorative elements, which detracted from the aesthetics of the seats, were restored and their colors reintegrated.
