A Superb 19th Century Yew Wood “Smoking High” Windsor Chair

This is how Isaac Allsop refers to this type of chair – now it is most often referred to as a “Pad” or “Broad” arm Windsor, no doubt due to the domed and flattened pad at the end of the arms. The high back has a central splat, with two stylised Christmas tree piercings, flanked by parallel shaped spindles, which are morticed into the arm bow. To the underside of the arms are heavy well-turned supports, with a central splat, again with a Christmas tree piercing.

The elm saddle seat has a “cupid bow” shaped front, and is supported on elaborately turned legs ending in a “tulip” shaped foot. The legs are joined by an H-stretcher, with an additional turned stretcher joining the back legs.

The choice of yew wood and the colour are quite exceptional.

Provenance – this pad arm chair was bought from a cottage on the Welbeck Estate, 3 miles from Worksop, where the chair was made.

Worksop, Isaac Allsop, circa 1850.

Height 44.5 inches, across the arms 24 inches, seat depth 18.5 inches.

Ref 120