Georges Alphonse Jacob Desmalter Paintings

Georges Alphonse Jacob Desmalter, commonly known as Georges Jacob II, was a renowned French furniture maker. He was born in 1770 into a lineage of master craftsmen; his grandfather, Georges Jacob, was a prominent chair maker during the reign of Louis XVI. Georges Jacob II's father, Jean-Baptiste Jacob, known as Jacob-Desmalter, also had a significant influence on his career, as they collaborated and eventually Georges II took over the family business.

Georges Jacob II inherited the family workshop, Établissement Jacob-Desmalter, at a pivotal point in French history, amidst the political and social upheavals of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era. Despite the turbulent times, Jacob Desmalter managed to sustain and even enhance the reputation of the family business, becoming one of the most sought-after furniture makers of his time. He was particularly renowned for his Empire style furniture, characterized by classical motifs, symmetry, and the use of mahogany and gilt bronze.

His clientele included the French imperial family and various members of the European nobility. Jacob Desmalter's workshop produced pieces for Napoleon's residences, including the Tuileries Palace and Saint Cloud, and he was also involved in the furnishing of the Château de Malmaison for Josephine de Beauharnais. Furthermore, his work was commissioned for the restoration of the Château de Versailles during the Bourbon Restoration.

Georges Jacob II's contributions to the world of furniture design were significant, as he not only upheld the prestigious family tradition but also adapted to the changing tastes of the time. His ability to balance artistry with the commercial demands of his industry ensured that the Jacob-Desmalter name remained synonymous with quality and elegance throughout his career. He passed away in 1841, leaving behind a legacy that would influence furniture design well into the 19th century.