X-form stools were inspired by ancient Egyptian folding stools and used by kings and high ranking officials throughout the Middles Ages. In late 17th century France, these stools were called tabornets and used as seating at Versailles for the privileged ladies of Louis XIV’s court when in the presence of royals. A ladies rank was represented by the level of decoration on her tabornet. This late 19th century walnut taboret, with a faint gold gilt wash, has delicate palmette carvings on the legs with rosette medallion accents. Purchased with the needlepoint upholstery, but could be updated easily with new fabric!