A recamier is a type of daybed or couch with two raised ends of unequal height, usually scrolled, and no back, or only a short back along part of its length. It is named after Juliette Récamier, the celebrated French society hostess, who was painted reclining on such a couch by Jacques-Louis David in 1800.
The form belongs to the Neoclassical taste of the Directoire and Empire periods in France, when designers looked to ancient Greek and Roman furniture for inspiration. In England, similar couches appear in Regency furniture, often in mahogany or rosewood, with reeded frames, brass mounts or inlay, sabre or lion-paw feet and loose bolster cushions. The term is used loosely today, and recamier, daybed, chaise longue and méridienne are often applied interchangeably, although purists note small differences in form. Collectors look for original frames with good timber and carving, firm joints and evidence of the original upholstery method. Many recamiers have been re-upholstered several times, and frames weakened by tack holes may need careful restoration. In modern interiors, a recamier makes an elegant piece for a drawing room, bedroom or window bay.
