A Fine Early 18th Century Oak Westmorland Armchair

Having one of the best colour, skins and patina of any chair I have seen. The shaped low crest rail has most unusual large carved flowerheads to each side, and the initials and date ”I B (J B) 1705” laid out between.

The upper panel is carved with a typical complex strapwork interlaced design, only found in this part of the country, and seen from around 1645-50 to the first few years of the 18th century. This is probably one of the latest examples of this type of carving. 

Together with the plain lower panel, they are surrounded by run-moulded uprights and centre rail. The down-curved arms rest on well-turned supports which continue down to form the legs, which are joined by heavy square stretchers. The boarded seat is secured to the seat rails which stout oak pegs. 

Westmorland - Eden Valley, 1705.

Ref 2992

Height 44 inches, across the arms 23 inches, depth 23.5 inches.

Photographed and discussed in Victor Chinnery’s “Oak Furniture, The British Tradition”, page 490, fig 4.174.