A set of historical French wallpaper panels, "Allegories Des Arts," created around 1802, are believed to be the work of Jacquemart & Benard, based on designs by Charles Percier and Pierre Fontaine. These renowned French architects and interior designers were instrumental in shaping the neoclassical Empire style, also known as the Directoire style, during the Napoleonic era. Percier and Fontaine, often referred to as "Napoleon's architects," held significant influence over the decorative arts and architecture of early 19th century France.

Frances Elkins, considered one of the 20th century's most prominent decorators, collaborated with her brother on approximately 15 large houses. She was known for her innovative approach, blending antiques with modern pieces and incorporating elements from her European travels. Albert D. Lasker, one of the pioneers of modern advertising, and his wife were among the affluent clients who sought out the siblings' expertise. Frances Elkins likely acquired the wallpaper panels during one of her buying trips to France.

The Allegories

In 1995, Scenic Wallpaper was contacted by the owners of the Lasker house to remove and save the paper because the new owners were planning to remove and destroy it. It was removed by us, packaged, restored and then we reinstalled it in an apartment at 740 Park Ave in Manhattan. Installation was compromised of over 125 separate pieces, including columns, friezes, and dado, basically a room set.

Once the apartment at 740 Park Avenue was sold in 2022, we removed the paper for preservation once again, and it was exhibited recently at the Winter Antiques Show.

See more of our Antique Wallpaper restorations here. 

See more of our Wallpaper Removals here.