Late 17th Century William and Mary English Oak Side Chair

Details

Description

This late 17th century English oak high back chair dates from the William and Mary period, circa 1680 to 1700. … Read more This late 17th century English oak high back chair dates from the William and Mary period, circa 1680 to 1700. It is built in solid oak with hand-cut mortise and tenon joinery secured by hand-driven wooden pegs. The tall back has an arched crest rail framing a recessed panel, and the turned legs are joined by boldly turned stretchers, including a distinctive central baluster stretcher. The original framed board seat reflects how English chairs were made before upholstered seating became common.

Centuries of use have given the oak a deep, rich patina, and tool marks and small irregularities throughout the frame show the hand of early joiners. Chairs of this type stood in the halls, dining rooms and studies of late Stuart English homes, and today the piece brings architectural presence to both traditional and contemporary rooms.

Condition is consistent with age, including historic repairs and surface wear to one foot. The chair is best suited to display or very light, careful use and is not recommended for regular seating; a conservation assessment is advised before any active use. It measures 49.5 inches high, 18.25 inches wide and 15 inches deep. See less