Early 19th Century Painted Armchairs

An elegant near pair of cream and green painted armchairs of George III period, attributable to Gillows of Lancaster and London. England, circa 1800.

Why we like it

Retaining most of its exquisite original painted decoration, these armchairs have unusually broad proportions for this model, suggesting a special commission. Their appearance pleasingly softened by time and wear, these chairs are presented in a coveted 'English Country House' look.

Attribution

One of the most successful cabinetmaking firms of the 19th century England, Gillows of Lancaster and London were always in the avant-garde of design and craftsmanship. Their Estimate Sketch Books, preserved in the Westminster Library in London, contain various designs for neoclassical chairs, some of them intended for painted decoration. The exquisitely painted central medallion in the back tablet on one armchair, and a similar carved rosette on another, is a feature typical of Gillows seat furniture of the beginning of the 19th century, including the handsome 'Edwards' pattern chair, supplied to Wilbraham Egerton of Tatton Park, Cheshire and to Stephen Tempest of Broughton Hall, North Yorkshire, around 1811-12 (S.Stuart, Gillows of Lancaster and London 1730 - 1840, London, 2008, vol. I, pp.216-218). 

Dimensions

Height: 34.75" / 88 cm
Width: 23.5" / 59.5 cm
Depth: 23.75" / 60.5 cm
Seat height: 15.5" / 39 cm (with cushion 18" / 45 cm)

Height: 33.25" / 84.5 cm
Width: 23.5" / 59.5 cm
Depth: 23.75" / 60.5 cm
Seat height: 15" / 38 cm (with cushion 17.75" / 44 cm)

Condition

Good original antique condition. Ready for placement and immediate use. Newly recovered seat cushions with hand-made tufts.