Chair
Category
Furniture
Date
circa 1900
Materials
Oak
Measurements
105 x 41 x 56 cm
Place of origin
England
Order this imageCollection
Ightham Mote, Kent
NT 825303
Summary
One of a set of three carved oak hall or 'sgabello' chairs, English, circa 1900. One carved with thistles, one with shamrocks, one with roses, each with arched and waisted solid back, rounded and shaped seat and with front and back angled supports.
Full description
Carved chairs like these were particularly associated with Venice in the 16th century but became popular all over Europe. They have long been known as sgabelli, ultimately derived from the word scabellum (Latin for 'stool'). In Venice they often stood in sets along the walls of the portego . This was a long room that was used for family celebrations, display and hospitality. Here the carved detail appears to represent the National flowers of Ireland, Scotland and England.
Provenance
Acquired by the Colyer-Ferguson family for Ightham Mote between 1889 and 1951 and purchased by Mrs Lade of Yaldham Manor at the Ightham Mote sale of 1951. Subsequently purchased by the National Trust in 2007.