Pair of rare hardwood open arm or "garden" chairs with pierced and spindle inset backs with ball finials, scroll arms and drop-in seats, the square legs joined by straight stretchers and resting on two runners; English circa 1780-1800. Also often referred to as 'Yorkshire' chairs.
The term "garden" chair refers to the stability of the low stretcher design which prevents the legs from sinking into turf. These chairs were a staple in country houses in the second half of the 18th century, utilized as hall chairs which could be transferred outside for use in the garden. The top rail fret-work in the Gothic pattern corresponds to Mayhew and Ince's Universal System of Household Furniture patterns published in 1762. Mayhew and Ince may have provided an example for Henry, first Earl of Digby for the library at Sherborne Castle, Dorset, and a set with similar pierced crestings is found in the Lower Hall at Houghton Hall, Norfolk.
Size: 34 h x 24 ¼ w x 21 ¾ d in
A21134