Pronounced: /ˈkæbriˌoʊl lɛɡ/. Also called: S-curve leg, double-curve furniture leg, queen-anne leg. A cabriole leg is a furniture leg shaped in a graceful double curve—bowing outward at the top (the "knee") and tapering inward before flaring again at the foot. This S-shaped silhouette is one of the most recognizable details in 18th-century Queen Anne and Chippendale furniture. ## What is a Cabriole Leg? The cabriole leg takes its name from the French word for a goat's leap, echoing the springing curve of an animal's hind leg. Instead of a straight, columnar support, it sweeps out and then back in, ending in a decorative foot—often a pad, club, or ball-and-claw. The shape lends chairs, tables, and cabinets a sense of movement and elegance. ## Anatomy of a Cabriole Leg - Knee: The convex curve at the top where the leg meets the frame. - Ankle: The slender, concave taper toward the bottom. - Foot: The terminating detail—pad, slipper, club, or ball-and-claw. - Carving: Knees are sometimes adorned with a carved shell or acanthus leaf. ## Cabriole Leg in Modern and Organic Interiors Though rooted in formal antique furniture, the cabriole leg has a place in today's eclectic and organic modern rooms when used thoughtfully: - A single vintage cabriole-leg chair adds curve and history to a clean, neutral space. - Reupholstering an antique piece in linen or boucle softens its formality. - The leg's organic curve echoes the soft, nature-inspired forms central to organic modern style. Mixing one antique silhouette into a contemporary Canadian home creates the lived-in, collected look that keeps minimalism from feeling cold. ## How to Style a Cabriole-Leg Piece - Let it stand out as a sculptural accent against pared-back surroundings. - Pair dark carved wood with light, tonal upholstery for balance. - Avoid over-matching—one curvy antique reads as intentional; a whole set can feel dated. - Look for genuine vintage finds; their patina adds authenticity. ## Related Terms - Queen Anne — An 18th-century style known for graceful curves and cabriole legs. - Vintage — Older pieces, typically 20–100 years old, prized for character. - Upholstery — The fabric, padding, and springs covering furniture. - Accent Chair — A standalone chair chosen to add style or contrast. - Patina — The aged surface character a material develops over time.