Fine Regency Simulated Rosewood Bergere Armchair

A fine Regency period simulated rosewood and rosewood library tub bergère, of Klismos form, attributed to William Wilkinson of Ludgate Hill, London.

English, c. 1815.

The open beech showframe, dark grained to simulate rosewood, caned throughout, having the scrolled tablet crest rail, inset with brass-inlaid reserve of rosewood, above the volute scroll carved arm supports, over moulded and brass inlaid seat-rails, the whole raised on sabre legs, terminating in the original brass castors. The down-filled squab cushion covered in tan leather..

This design of this armchair derives from the antique Grecian Klismos chair, having distinctively curved front and back legs, favoured by Thomas Hope, possibly the most extravagant Regency designer and arts patron, and George Smith, whose published furniture designs became highly influential in the Regency period.

The firm of Wilkinson can be traced to its establishment at the start of the last decade of the 18th century by Thomas and William Wilkinson. In 1808 William had established his own successful business on Ludgate Hill and had commissions from amongst other august patrons, Goldsmiths Hall in the City.

Provenance: Christie’s, London, 6 July 1989, Lot 26.

Closely related related armchairs in mahogany are in the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire collection at Chatsworth.

For an identical pair of armchairs, stamped by Wilkinson Ludgate Hill, 2257, see Sotheby’s, London, 6 July 2011, Lot 130 (Realised £33,650). Further similar example was sold by Christie's 6 July 2000, Lot 92.