French Accents Antique Furniture - Glossary of Terms

Glossary of Antique Terms - L

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Terms Defined: Les os de mouton

Literally "Sheep's horn," this term refers to sinuous stretchers that are the quintessential element of Louis XIV furniture.

Examples from our gallery:

French, Louis XIII-XIV transition period canape (Item No. 665)
In solid, carved walnut with "les os de mouton" (sheep's horn) stretchers. Late 17th century.

Pair of French, Louis XIV style fauteuils a la Reine (Item No. 835)
In solid, carved walnut with les os de moutons stretchers, arched back, and foliate scrolled arms. 19th century.

Dimensions: 46½" high (at back) by 26" wide

Pair of Louis XIV style fauteuils (Item No. 452)
In solid walnut with the "Les os de mouton" (sheep's horn) stretchers characteristic of Louis XIV furniture. One of these identical chairs was carved in the 17th century while the other was added in the 19th century to complete the pair ("fausse paire").

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