Stained Oak Armchair with Rush Seat and Turned Balls. French Work Attributed to Charles Dudouyt. Circa 1940

This armchair features a structure in solid oak stained dark brown, with turned uprights rhythmed with rings and surmounted by generous balls — the signature of the model. The back is organised around horizontal curved and cut-out rails, extended by curved armrests; the trapezoidal seat is fitted with a radiating rush weave, and the powerful base, punctuated with turned rings, is stiffened by stretchers.

This vocabulary — dark oak, assertive turning, balls and rush — is that of Charles Dudouyt, a major French designer of the 1930s-1940s, whose modernised rustic furniture, halfway between regional tradition and modernity, is today enjoying a strong revival of interest. The model is attributed to him.

Condition report: Good overall condition. Sound wood with an even patina, rushwork in good condition showing slight shades of colour from use. A characterful armchair, ideal at the head of a table, near a fireplace or in an interior of chalet spirit.