China Trade Carved Daybed

Fantastic and unusual Chinese trade chaise longue in the Louis XV style, circa 1850. This daybed was likely made in Canton for export to the French market. It combines numerous styles in a very rare manner. The whole is raised on eight cabriole legs, with each knee carved with early 18th Century style arabesques on a punchwork ground. The rest of the frame is also decoratively carved with Chinese-style peonies and trailing vines. This style of low-relief carved decoration owes a lot to early 18th Century Queen Anne type decoration, more usually seen on period English chairs. It certainly simulates the sort of decoration seen on gilt gesso centre tables in the manner of James Moore. Furniture made in China for export to Western clients, and specifically Canton, was integral to the 'China Trade.' Trading with China was dominated by the British East India Company from the late 17th Century. The French East India Company was far less successful and defunct by 1800, but they were very helpful allies to the British during the 19th Century. They kept The Hongs at Canton open for trade until the divisive opium wars fractured western dominance of the trade. This is a wonderful piece of furniture with rich historical significance. A truly unique statement piece for any interior.