Tete Tete

J. H. Belter in New York, New York, created tête-à-tête America during the years of 1850-60. It is made out of a combination of varies woods such as Rosewood, ash, pine, and walnut. Belter was known and is still known for his laminated and carved Rococo Revival rosewood parlor suites. His method of steaming several layers of wood glued together resulted in thin strong and curved pieces that could be carved. This chair was inspired by eighteenth-century French sources and is part of a parlor set. Tête-à-tête consists of C- and S- curves and scrolls, curved cabriole legs, and carved ornamented flowers all with a very high polish easily obtained with the fine grain count. This chair also known as confident; which was well suited for use in a parlor as its body consists of two chairs facing opposite direcetions and joined together at the arm which is perfect for one on one discrete conversation.

Similar:
Made during the same time period the Étagère is similar to tête-à-tête with its scroll shaped legs and S- and C- shaped scroll carvings.

Contrast:
Tête-à-tête holds a high contrast to the Le Corbusier Petit Loveseat, which also is for seating two people, but it neither has the intimacy desired in the tête-à-tête, nor the ornamented carvings and intricate detailing of the wood frame. It has a more modern and practical feel for present day times. It also introduces a new material for its framework: stainless steel, and a different textile: leather.