The gossip chair designed to accommodate large women's dresses is known as which name?

• A. Bergere
• B. Caquetoire
• C. Chippendale
• D. Davenport

Answer: (B)

In 18th‑century interiors, chairs were shaped to fit social behavior as much as to fit the body. The caquetoire, known as the gossip chair, was specifically designed to accommodate large women's dresses and allow comfortable conversation. It features a low, wide seat with a high, curved back and open sides, which lets voluminous skirts drape and keeps the sitter in a sociable posture while chatting. The name comes from the French caqueter, meaning to gossip, highlighting its use in intimate rooms and salons where conversations were central. The other options refer to different styles or types of furniture without this specialized dress-friendly function.