A Very Fine English Elm & Ash Windsor Armchair, c.1820-1840

A very fine English elm and ash Windsor armchair dating to the first half of the 19th century, c.1820–1840.

This is an exceptionally well-made chair with particularly good proportions. The tall bowed back is filled with slender spindles above and below the shaped arm rail, giving the chair an elegant, open appearance. The sweeping arms are supported on curved uprights, while the turned front legs and shaped stretchers complete a beautifully balanced frame.

The broad elm seat is particularly special, with an extraordinary swirling figured grain running across the surface. Years of use have produced a rich, mellow colour, ranging from warm honey and tobacco through to deep brown. The same natural wear can be seen across the arms, spindles and bow, where the darker surface has worn back to reveal the lighter ash beneath.

Most probably made within the Thames Valley / Buckinghamshire Windsor tradition, where elm was favoured for the seat and strong, flexible ash for the turned and bent components.

In excellent condition for its age and standing very well. A handsome early Windsor with exceptional colour, beautifully figured timber and quality of construction.