Convertible library stool, by Jacob Frères

Rare mahogany transformation library stool from Santo Domingo.

Rectangular in shape and resting on four drum feet, it is covered in black leather. By means of a judicious push-button system, the tray including the upholstery releases a six-step retractable library staircase. Perfect state of conservation. Stamped "Jacob frères rue Meslée"* on a side rail. French work from the Consulate period around 1800.

Dimensions:

Closed: Height: 53.5 cm Width: 48.5 cm; Depth: 62 cm

Open: Height: 92 cm (step); ; Width: 48.5cm; Depth: 104cm

Similar models:

- Topographic office of the Emperor Napoleon 1st at the Palace of Versailles (Grand Trianon)

- Tajan sale December 20, 2000, lot 264 stamped CANABAS (47 280 euros)

- Artcurial sale 9 October 2013 lot 83 (28 758 euros)

The stamp: "Jacob brothers, rue Meslée" is used by the two sons of Georges Jacob, Georges II (1768-1803) and François-Honoré-Georges (1770-1841), joined forces to take over the workshop of their father under the company name “Jacob Frères”.

The association lasted from its creation in 1796 until 1803, the date of the death of George II.
In the company that they managed together until towards the end of the Consulate, the eldest (Georges II Jacob) took care of the commercial administration and the second of the technical part. François-Honoré-Georges called himself Jacob-Desmalter, from the name of a property his father owned in Burgundy.
General Bonaparte, returning from Italy, ordered from the Jacob brothers, for his bedroom on rue Chantereine, a curious piece of military furniture, the bed of which simulated a tent and the drum seats. Later the First Consul called on the same cabinetmakers to refurnish the former royal residences devastated by the Revolution.

After having until then produced works of very sober taste, which stood out above all for the character and purity of the style, the Jacobs began to manufacture pieces more richly decorated with sculptures and bronze.