George II Mahogany Gainsborough Chair c.1750

A particularly fine quality Georgian Gainsborough chair.

This exceptional example in superb original condition and extremely comfortable.

Recently upholstered in a Chinoiserie old gold coloured pure silk called ‘Cathay’ which is made by the Gainsborough Silk Company. This particular silk fabric retails at over £200 per meter.

The chair exhibits so many of the most sought after elements, being perfectly proportioned, retaining its original spandrels and original solid brass casters.

The solid mahogany frame has developed a lovely warm colour and is completely tight and original and is not wormed.

Minor superficial dings consistent with age and use and a good rich patina.

The tip of one back leg has a small professional 19th century repair, not affecting structure and not at all noticeable.

The serpentine seat rail is mirrored by the serpentine shaped back and the arms are slightly outswept, having carved open flower heads at the elbows in the manner of Benjamin Crook Snr and lovely channel carved reeding which accentuates the flowing lines, with matching channel carved reeding to the front legs.

Benjamin Crook Snr had his workshop at the ‘The George & White Lyon’ on the south side of St Paul’s Churchyard, London, he retired in c. 1750 passing the business on to his son Benjamin Crook Jnr. Both father and son were cabinet makers producing a wide range of household furniture including chairs and often embellished their pieces with carved open flower heads. Benjamin Brook Snr remained active in the business and remained a Freeman of the Joiners’ Livery Company, being elected as the Company’s Upper Warden in 1757 .

A beautiful, comfortable 18th century chair and a wonderful quality rare example.