Woven silk upholstery for a chair by Philippe de la Salle

Woven silk upholstery for a chair

Philippe de la Salle · 1765

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“Stop to admire this opulent 18th-century silk upholstery, a dazzling example of Rococo textile design. Its vibrant floral patterns and shimmering silk threads would have brought luxurious elegance to any French interior.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This vibrant silk upholstery, designed for a chair, bursts with a lavish display of naturalistic flowers and foliage. It was created in 1765 by Philippe de la Salle, a designer known for his exceptional textile work. The fabric’s surface shimmers with a complex play of light, achieved through the varying textures and weaves of the silk threads. Large, full-blown roses and smaller blossoms in shades of pink, red, and blue intertwine with delicate green leaves and scrolling vines, creating a sense of abundant growth. This intricate design reflects the Rococo period's love for organic forms and decorative elegance, intended to adorn the fashionable interiors of 18th-century French society. The sheer scale and detail of the pattern suggest it would have been a focal point in any room, transforming a functional piece of furniture into a luxurious work of art.

DETAILS
Artist
Philippe de la Salle
Date
1765
Medium
Silk
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
L. 50 x W. 30 1/2 inches (127.0 x 77.5 cm) (loom width)
Collection
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Culture
French, Lyons
Credit line
Rogers Fund, 1933
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What to Notice

Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Woven silk upholstery for a chair
01

The large, open roses, rendered with remarkable depth and volume.

02

The delicate blue flowers, contrasting with the richer pinks and reds.

03

The way the leaves and stems intertwine, creating a dynamic, flowing pattern.

04

The subtle sheen of the silk, which gives the fabric a luxurious quality.

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THE ARTIST

Philippe de la Salle

1723–1804 · France

Philippe de la Salle was a master of 18th-century Lyon silk weaving, known for luxurious textiles like his 'Branche de Corail'.

Read de la Salle’s full story
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