Description
ABOUT THE ITEM
DIMENSIONS
H: 145 cm; W: 70 cm; D: 44 cm
MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES
ORIGINAL EXAMPLE WOVEN IN TWO TONE MEMBRE AND WITH THE DESIRABLE TWISTED BASE
PLACE OF ORIGIN
FRANCE
PERIOD
1970s
CONDITION
VERY GOOD
WITH SIGNS OF WEAR
In the 1974 film Emmanuelle, Sylvia Kristel’s portrayal of the titular character included scenes where she posed seductively in a rattan peacock chair. These images, especially the film’s promotional poster featuring Kristel topless in the chair, became iconic and significantly boosted the chair’s popularity. The peacock chair’s intricate design and association with the film led to its widespread adoption in bohemian and erotic aesthetics during the 1970s. This association transformed the chair into a symbol of sensuality and exoticism, making it a sought-after piece in interior decor and photography.
HISTORY
ICONIC
The movie Emmanuelle, released in 1974, is an iconic French erotic drama that became a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Just Jaeckin, the film stars Sylvia Kristel in the titular role, marking her breakthrough as an international star. Based on the 1959 novel of the same name by Emmanuelle Arsan, the film tells the story of a young woman exploring her sensuality and freedom while living in Bangkok. With its blend of exotic locations, soft-focus cinematography, and sensual themes, Emmanuelle redefined the genre of erotic cinema, achieving both commercial success and lasting cultural impact.
Sylvia Kristel portrays Emmanuelle, a sophisticated and curious woman who joins her diplomat husband in Thailand. Encouraged by him to embrace a liberated lifestyle, she embarks on a series of romantic and sexual experiences that challenge conventional norms and her understanding of desire. Kristel’s understated yet alluring performance was widely praised, and her natural elegance became synonymous with the character. The film’s tasteful portrayal of eroticism, paired with its exploration of female empowerment and self-discovery, distinguished it from other films in the genre at the time.
The film’s promotional materials, particularly the famous poster of Kristel seated in a rattan peacock chair, became iconic, further cementing its place in pop culture history.
The movie’s success spawned a series of sequels and imitators, establishing Emmanuelle as a franchise that endured for decades. It became a symbol of the sexual liberation movement of the 1970s, breaking box office records worldwide and paving the way for a new era of adult-themed films. While often controversial for its explicit content, the film is also recognized for its artistry and Sylvia Kristel’s captivating performance, which made Emmanuelle a landmark in the history of erotic cinema.
The rattan Emmanuelle peacock chair, with its iconic wide fan-shaped backrest, traces its origins to the Philippines in the late 19th century. Crafted from natural rattan, a flexible and lightweight material abundant in Southeast Asia, the chair was originally handmade by skilled artisans. The intricate weaving patterns and dramatic silhouette reflect the fusion of traditional Filipino basketry techniques with furniture design. Its large, throne-like structure made it a symbol of prestige and status, often used in formal settings or as a centerpiece in homes and public spaces.
The chair’s unique design blends practicality with artistry. The rattan material, known for its strength and flexibility, allowed artisans to create complex patterns and curves, making each piece a work of art. The oversized backrest, shaped like a peacock’s tail, not only served as a visual focal point but also provided comfort and support. Its lightweight construction made it easy to transport and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, further contributing to its widespread appeal. As demand grew, rattan peacock chairs became synonymous with the bohemian aesthetic, often seen in fashion photography, music videos, and celebrity homes.
Today, the rattan Emmanuelle peacock chair remains a design classic, celebrated for its blend of craftsmanship, cultural history, and iconic status.