Rare late victorian folding tapestry chair gbp175
Gorgeous Victorian ebonised folding chair in Aesthetic Movement style (contemporary with Arts & Crafts). It has a distinctive Anglo-Japanese feel, with strong yet delicate lines, light feet, and ring-turned legs & uprights suggestive of bamboo, set off with a gilt inlay and matching moulded brass caps on all ends & joints. Oriental-influence and the ebonising of furniture were both popular fashions between 1870 & 1890
Very well-made piece with lots of character, in very good condition -- elegant and graceful-looking -- with only minor marking & scuffing, to be expected in furniture of its age, though the gilt has faded and there are 2 small finials missing from the top bar. This is only noticeable on close inspection, as the spacing of the remaining 3 finials is proportionate & looks 'meant'.
The wooden frame doesn't require any restoration, and still has its original carpet tapestry back & seat, which are well-worn, but look more chic than shabby, & are quite charming as is. These are attached by tacks and could be easily replaced if the buyer wishes, as could the finials. There are loose threads hanging down from the needlework edges (more prominently than in the photos below) -- if the buyer decides to retain the tapestry, they could be reworked by someone with a knowledge of textile restoration, & so have been left in their original state.
The chair is structurally sound -- fully usable (and comfortable) as well as decorative -- but needs careful handling because of its delicate & light-weight design, as well as its age. It's a rare and valuable piece: an identical chair with a different tapestry design (less worn needlework & all 5 finials intact) may be found at The Arts & Crafts Home on http://www.achome.co.uk/antiques/antiques.htm selling for GBP450.
Approximate measurements: 36" / 91.5cm high, 19" / 48cm wide, & 16" / 40.5cm deep when opened for sitting -- folds flat to a full height of 43" / 109cm, when closed & leaned against a wall. The seat is 16" / 40.5cm above floor-level. The tapestry back is 14.5" / 37cm high & 14" / 35.5cm wide; the tapestry seat is 14.5" / 37cm deep & 13.5" / 34cm wide.
Viewing is welcomed, to make sure you're happy with the item.
Buyer collects (due to weight & fragile decoration) -- Can't deliver.
Cheque must clear before pick-up, or cash on collection welcome.
Phone: 0208 473 2097