Generous 18th Century Provençal Three-Seat Radassié in Sage-Green Paint - 76¾"

A generous three-seat Provençal radassié, late 18th century, likely from Arles in Provence, with soft sage-green paint mellowed into a pleasingly timeworn patina. The ladder-back rises in three arched crest rails with scalloped edges, framed by shaped open arms and turned front posts. Below, rush seats are set over shaped aprons, while the stretchers take the distinctive form of entretoises à pédales carved as pedal-like footrests, a hallmark of Arlésienne craftsmanship. The bench is supplied with deep quilted cushions and pillows sewn from antique Provençal printed cottons, including small floral boutis-style fabrics and a gingham check. Condition is sound and attractively weathered, the painted surface showing scattered losses and gentle rubbing and the rush seats with age apropriate wear. The quilted cushions, made from beautiful antique cottons, display an old stain to one seat but contribute to the overall patina and antique charm of the piece.

Radassiés were the convivial banquettes of southern France, placed in kitchens, halls, or beside the hearth for conversation and everyday tasks. This example embodies the rural Louis XV vocabulary favored in Provence, where joiners combined turned elements with gently serpentine rails and practical rush seats. The pedal-form stretchers, typical of Arles, allowed feet to rest above cool stone floors while strengthening the frame. The quiet green palette and artisanal rush seat reflect the region’s vernacular tradition, while the antique cottons of the cushions recall the indienne textiles long associated with Provençal interiors.

With its generous scale, the bench anchors a large entryway beneath a gilt mirror, serves as an inviting seat at the end of a bed in a spacious bedroom, or lines a dining wall paired with a farmhouse table. Placed beneath a window in a garden room, it brings rustic authenticity, soft color, and a timeworn note to bright sunlit spaces.