Description

Early C19th 'metamorphic' oak library armchair / steps in the manner of Richard Hicks Bridgens (1785-1846).
Rare form of metamorphic oak library armchair and steps in the manner of the architect and designer Richard Hicks Bridgens.
The Elizabethan or Jacobean-inspired 'strap-work' type carved style and design being a recognised feature of Bridgens work . The fold-over action with caned seat converting the armchair to form a set of 4-tread green baize-lined library steps .
Raised on original lacquered brass cupped porcelain ceramic-wheeled castors , the bobbin-turned and carved button oak frame and uprights folding to form a stable level climbing steps platform.
Fitted with original high-quality gilt-brass hinges , the step treads fitted with the apparently original green baize.
The seat and back panel with original cane .
One arm of the chair with an historically filled brass aperture which perhaps previously held a detachable reading or book-rest , now deficient. The carved frame with 'button' detail carving .
The raked angle back with a central 'oil-cloth' deeply buttoned and 'quilted' upholstery squab back-rest and cane-work reverse. The arms also with upholstered elbow rests , raised on shaped and carved supports. The top rail of the chair-back with carved serpentine shaping . The ball carvings on the uprights of the chair-back serving as feet terminals when the chair is folded open to form the steps format .
Bridgens began his apprenticeship in Liverpool with the renowned cabinet-maker George Bullock before moving to London . After Bullock's death he set up his own business in Birmingham and some of his most well-known work was for James Watt junior at Aston Hall , designing furniture and alterations in the Jacobean style .
The frame and action in excellent original condition. The original cane-work seat in fine condition with no holes or damage.
A skilfully-designed piece of metamorphic library furniture of strong presence , which though undocumented, is strongly attributable , through comparisons of recorded items of similar distinctive stylistic design, to the work of Richard Hicks Bridgens.
H 32" (as chair)
W 21"
D 24"
England c.1835
Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .
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Located in the centre of Worcester in the shadow of the Cathedral with easy parking nearby. Exit Junction 7 M5 and follow the signs for Worcester Porcelain Museum . Our premises are located 100 metres from the Museum and 50 metres from Pay&Display car-park in nearby King St.
Internal Ref: ML 1906