Rare Pair of 1st Empire Benches from Parma

A rare and important pair of 18th-century neoclassical -1st Empire benches from Parma, retaining their original gilded and polychrome finish. Each with finely carved lion-head arm terminals, a symbol of strength and guardianship, fluted frames with silvered accents, and a crest rail adorned with acanthus and laurel carving. The tapered, fluted legs and architectural lines reflect strong Louis XVI influence, with echoes of Gustavian refinement, embodying the crosscurrents of French and Italian taste at the ducal court of Parma.

Surviving as a matched pair, these long benches—likely commissioned for a grand palazzo salon—are exceptionally rare. Their scale, condition, and distinguished carving elevate them as extrodinary examples of northern Italian neoclassical design.