The DAGOBERT armchair

The "Dagobert Chair" is a type of traditional French chair created from the image and design of the legendary bronze throne of King Dagobert I, who reigned in the 7th century.
For many centuries, the kings of France have sat on this throne during special ceremonies.
In the 11th century, the throne, which symbolically passed from one monarch to another (and moreover, at that time, it was already quite dilapidated from its constant use), was entered on the list of treasures of the Abbey of Saint-Denis.
In the 18th century, along with thirteen other treasures considered monuments of art and science, it was transferred to the Royal Library for safekeeping.
For centuries, Dagobert's throne was perceived as an attribute of royal status, and the fact that the king sat on the throne symbolized the legitimacy and continuity of his authority.
Dagobert's throne was last used as such by Napoleon I at the first Legion of Honour ceremony in 1804 (legend has it that Napoleon broke this dilapidated throne by sitting on it).
A copy of Dagobert's throne, made in the early 19th century from gold-plated cast iron, is still located in the Basilica of Saint-Denis. As an episcopal throne, it has been protected as a historical monument since 1999.
Thus, the high symbolic significance of Dagobert's throne has been preserved over the centuries.
It is not surprising that the throne was copied many times, which led to the creation of a special type of furniture – the “Dagobert”.
The "Dagobert" armchair is one of the oldest types of French seating.
Generally, this chair is lower than the chairs of later centuries, and often – folding (adapted to the life of its owners at the time, who were constantly travelling, especially during the wars of the feudal era).
The seat's shape is reminiscent of the curved seats of ancient Roman thrones. The armchair is characterized by an X-shaped frame and a wide back, usually in the Gothic or Renaissance style; the seat is typically upholstered in stretched leather or canvas, attached on two sides. The ends of the armrests are decorated with lion heads – as on a royal throne.