French Louis XVI Style Medallion Back Needlepoint Armchair
Unbranded (likely European or high-end American import like Maitland-Smith or Ethan Allen) · Furniture > Chairs & Armchairs
Era / Decade
Mid-20th Century (1950s-1970s Revival)
Material
Hand-carved solid fruitwood or walnut frame with a wool needlepoint/tapestry textile and brass nailhead trim. High-quality traditional joinery.
Condition
Fair to Good. The wood frame appears structurally sound, but there is visible fraying, thinning, and a small hole in the needlepoint upholstery on the seat cushion. The finish on the wood shows minor scuffing typical of age.
Demand Level
Moderate. High interest from the 'Grandmillennial' design niche, but the repair needs make it a slower sell for general buyers.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$150 - $450 (due to upholstery damage)
Estimated Retail Value
$1,200 - $1,800 (based on modern high-end reproductions)
Comparable Sales
Similar chairs in excellent condition sell for $600-$950 on 1stDibs/Chairish. Similar chairs with upholstery damage typically sell for $100-$200 at local estate auctions or Facebook Marketplace.
Description
Stunning vintage French Provincial style armchair featuring a classic oval medallion back and ornate hand-carved floral detailing on the crest and legs. The chair is upholstered in a traditional floral needlepoint tapestry with a muted sage green and cream color palette, accented by deep rose-colored scrolls. Detailed with brass nailhead trim and fluted legs characteristic of the Louis XVI style. Perfect as a statement vanity chair or accent piece for a traditional or Grandmillennial interior.
Key Features
Hand-carved wood details, authentic wool needlepoint upholstery, classic Louis XVI silhouette, and highly desirable 'Grandmillennial' or 'Cottagecore' aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Construction methods such as the underside webbing and the quality of the carving suggest a mid-century reproduction rather than an 18th-century original. High confidence in its status as a quality vintage revival piece.
Flaws to Note
Significant wear to the needlepoint on the front right of the seat cushion including a small tear/hole. This will likely require professional patching or full reupholstery to reach maximum value. General age-related wear on the armrests.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace or North Lane for local pickup; Etsy or Chairish for high-end vintage furniture shipping. Local antique malls would also be suitable.
Selling Tips
Style the chair with a high-quality throw pillow to partially hide the seat wear in photos. Use keywords like 'French Provincial', 'Petit Point', 'Medallion Chair', and 'Louis XVI'. Highlight the hand-carved nature of the frame. Given its size, local pickup is easiest, but offering freight through a service like uShip can broaden the buyer pool.