A Beautifully Proportioned Small Early Charles I Oak Bench

The overhanging single board top with a double moulded edge to all sides is secured to the seat rails by six oak pegs.

The seat rails have a deep ‘run’ moulding just below centre and are finished along the bottom edge by a further, though simple, moulding.

The slightly tapering legs are well turned, with a bun knop top and bottom, and scratch turnings to the centre.

The stretchers are of stout section and display a lovely worn profile to the upper edge. A rare if not unique feature of the stretcher lies in the run moulding decoration, not only is this executed on the outward facing surface, but also on the inner facing – a detail which enhances the appearance when viewed from any aspect.

A fantastic small bench.

English, circa 1630

Length 54.5 inches, depth 11.5 inches, height 20 inches.

Ref 3001

Provenence – The Clive Sherwood Collection, Sotheby’s London, May 2002, Lot 387