When it comes to surviving small-scale furniture, there is a scarcity of chairs. This chair may have been a small-scale version of a masterpiece, an apprentice piece, or show piece. With a focus on the beautifully patinated leather seat and backrest, this chair was surely made by a skilled craftsman to impress.

It is generally believed, that small-scale models, such as this chair, were devised as display samples by cabinetmakers, their apprentices or itinerant artisans. However, others believe chairs like this were commissioned by clients as smaller duplicates of pieces privately owned or as children's furniture. Whatever the reason was for this chair’s creation, the quality and design does not fall short in comparison with its more sizeable contemporaries. Eagerly sought by antiques buffs, these mini exercises in cabinetmaking dexterity are now much sought-after. While this chair’s structure is rather simple, the beautifully patinated leather seat and backrest draws attention. The leather is secured to the seat with two, adjustable straps, while in the back, the leather is sewn around the wooden structure. Thanks to the patina and the materials, this chair has a powerful look.

Whatever the reasons for the existence of this chair may be, it does have great appeal in just being a smaller version of a full-sized piece. The attention to scale and detail is so perfect that it could have been made as a sample to tempt customers to order a full size one, or simply custom-made for a client. What is evident, is that the maker possessed great talent in cabinetmaking, and used high-quality materials that became even more appealing with the decades gone by.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Original, patinated leather seat.

Dimensions:

22.04 in W x 21.45 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 14.17 in

56 cm W x 54.5 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 36 cm