Antique Furniture Glossary: M

A • B • C • D • E • F • G • I • L • M • P • R • S • T • V Terms Defined: marquetry, marquise

Marquetry

A decorative technique in which different woods are inlaid into the body of a piece to create an image, such as of flowers. While most of the time the inlay work is done with various woods, mother-of-pearl, ivory, tortoiseshell, or other materials are sometimes also employed.

See our Marquetry category for examples.

Marquise

A broad chair built to accommodate the wide skirts and panniers of the Louis XV pariod.

Examples from our gallery: Pair of fine, Louis XV style marquise bergeres (Item No. 885) In solid, carved beechwood with serpentine, floral carved crests, scrolled arms, ample seats with serpentine floral-carved rail, and cabriole legs. One of identical pair shown. 19th century. 42" wide by 40" tall by 25" deep