Furniture restorer to the stars, Christophe Pourny, returns to the Martha Stewart Show today to share the age old technique of Linen Wrapped Furniture.
CHRISTOPHE POURNY & MARTHA STEWARTA centuries old process that originated in the Far-East, the technique was used to prevent moisture from seeping into spices and dry goods loaded on ships setting sail across the world. The French port of Marseilles was one major destination for boatloads of exotic cargo. It is here that French merchants saw the linen wrapping technique - and saw it for so much more than just barrels and crates. The middle of the 19th century saw the birth of the "leisure" traveler. For the first time in history, rich, non-royals were planning excursions and setting up summer homes in more comfortable climates. As this was long before the days of Fed-Ex and Wheelie suitcases - the logistics where nothing short of a nightmare. 
VINTAGE LOUIS VUITTON TRUNK Custom built cases wrapped in water-proofed fabric changed everything. Suddenly, there was a practical way to move ones belongings from one house to another. The inspiration for the Louis Vuitton trunk was here! Ironically, what was once the most "practical" invention evolved into a symbol of ultimate luxury.
Christophe Pourny has been restoring and creating furniture for his well heeled clientele for 15 years. Born and raised in the South of France, Pourny calls New York home. His classic approach, with a modern execution is what makes him a unique resource to clients. 
LINEN WRAPPED TABLE - AT DUANE French Polish is a specialty of the studio, as is custom finishes, and custom furniture designs.
The two side table bases are Bagues, a French company known for their brilliant bronze work. The guys at Duane Antiques in Tribeca were kind enough to loan these two wonderful examples of bases in need of a new top. The side tables would be a chic addition to any room. charming on their own, or also placed together to create a coffee table. The solid bronze Bagues bases with custom linen-wrapped tops, made for the Martha Stewart show by Christophe Pourny will be available at Duane. The beautiful mid-century console table featured on the show was also from Duane. Please contact the store for more information on these tables, or to inquire about their extensive inventory of furniture.