Overview
A highly decorative set of two antique Victorian walnut salon chairs dating from circa 1870, comprising an elegant high-back slipper chair and a beautifully shaped low tub armchair.
Although contrasting in form, the two chairs work exceptionally well together. Their warm walnut frames and matching golden-yellow patterned upholstery create a distinctive and sophisticated decorative pairing, while the difference in height and silhouette gives each chair its own individual character.
Key Features
- Two antique Victorian salon chairs
- Dating from circa 1870
- Warm walnut frames
- One high-back slipper chair
- One low tub armchair
- Matching golden-yellow patterned upholstery
- Carved floral and foliate detailing
- Buttoned upholstery to the tub chair
- Decorative turned spindle gallery
- Carved and turned legs
- Raised on castors
- Highly decorative contrasting forms
Craftsmanship & Detail
The high-back chair has a graceful serpentine outline with a generously upholstered back and seat enclosed by a richly coloured walnut frame. A carved floral crest crowns the back, while further carved detailing enriches the shaped lower frame and cabriole front legs. The chair is finished with castors, retaining the light and elegant character associated with Victorian salon furniture.
The accompanying tub armchair presents an entirely different but equally accomplished silhouette. Its sweeping walnut frame curves around a deep circular upholstered seat beneath a buttoned back, while a delicate gallery of turned spindles provides an attractive open architectural detail between the seat and upper back.
Further carved corner details and turned and fluted front legs demonstrate the attention given to the chair's construction and decoration. The golden-yellow patterned upholstery brings the two pieces together visually and provides a particularly striking contrast against the warm tones of the walnut.
Together, the chairs capture the richness and inventiveness of mid-Victorian upholstered furniture. Their contrasting proportions make them particularly effective positioned together within a drawing room, bedroom or dressing room, or used separately as fireside and occasional seating.
Good-quality Victorian walnut seating remains sought after for its combination of craftsmanship, decorative character and versatility within both traditional and contemporary interiors.
