Jerôme Thoumyre

Upholsterer

©Clément Legrand

A passion for antique seats

Jérôme set up his upholstery workshop in the early 1980s
The restoration of antique seats is his speciality
He finds inspiration in museums and exhibitions

Having grown up with parents who were art lovers and collectors, Jérôme's passion for antique furniture arose naturally. From his childhood, visiting museums and antique shops was a real pastime. It was through his meeting with Monsieur Léon, considered one of the greatest upholsterers of his time, that Jérôme began to learn the art of upholstery at the prestigious Maison Lamour in Paris. He deepened his knowledge by working for an antiquarian for many years, before opening his own workshop in the heart of Rouen. Since then, Jérôme has devoted himself to restoring old armchairs, with particular expertise in 18th to 19th century techniques.

Interview

©Clément Legrand

©Clément Legrand

What do you love most about your profession?: Everything about it! I particularly love to restore an armchair that has not been restored since its origin, such as some armchairs dating from Louis XV to Louis XVI. I also love knowing that my seats travel far and wide; they can be found in museums and abroad.
Do you often work for museums or for customers abroad?: This can happen. A few years ago, for example, I had to restore old seats for the Musée des Beaux Arts in Rouen. I also work for an antique dealer who mostly does business abroad, working for clients all over the world. I like it when he tells me about the destination of my seats.
How are tradition and innovation expressed in your work?: Tradition comes within the techniques I use; I only master long-held techniques. The innovation comes through collaboration. I recently worked with the contemporary artist Clément Legrand, restoring seats that featured his embroidered designs.
Could your craft be considered in danger?: No, I find there is real interest in craftsmanship among young people. I have even noticed their particular attachment to old armchairs. A few young clients, especially students, have come to see me to restore their grandparents' old seats, so that they could take them with them to their student digs.

Jerôme Thoumyre is a master artisan: he began his career in 1980 and he started teaching in 2010