Hepplewhite Shield Back Chairs 18th Century

Name: Set of Six Hepplewhite Dining Chairs Circa 1790
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1216436
Price: 1950 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing

ObjectDining Chairs
Period18th century
StyleGeorgian / Hepplewhite
MaterialMahogany, Fabric, Upholstery
ColourDark Brown
MotifsShield back, Carved urn splat, Tapered legs, Upholstered seat pad

This set of six 18th-century Georgian dining chairs follows the classic Hepplewhite style, dating to circa 1790. Formed from dark brown mahogany, each piece displays an open shield back centred with a finely carved urn splat, combined with straight tapered legs supporting a serpentine seat pad. The newly re-covered upholstery consists of vertical stripes in alternating shades of burgundy and cream, complemented by a pale braided trim around the cushion borders. Visible characteristics include the rich grain and polish of the dark timber, the neat upholstery pins along the seat edge, and the intricate pierced woodwork of the backrests. Measuring 92 cm in total height with a 47 cm seat height, 53 cm in width, and 46 cm in depth, these dining chairs suit formal dining rooms and traditional reception spaces around a central table. The solid joints and newly upholstered condition ensure daily functional use for family meals or dinner parties while maintaining a formal aesthetic suitable for an English country house interior.

FAQs

Hepplewhite furniture originated in late 18th-century Britain, inspired by cabinetmaker George Hepplewhite. The style is recognised by light, elegant proportions, neoclassical motifs such as wheat sheaves or urns, and distinctive shield, heart, or oval-shaped chair backs.

Late 18th-century Hepplewhite chairs were primarily crafted from dense mahogany or satinwood. Joinery relied on traditional mortise and tenon joints, with seats upholstered over wooden frames using horsehair padding and natural fabric coverings.

Authentic period pieces exhibit hand-carved decorative details, subtle irregularities from hand tools, and natural shrinkage or oxidisation in the mahogany timber. Look for original joinery techniques, peg construction, and hand-cut saw marks on unexposed frame sections.

Shield-back chairs can be paired with modern minimalist dining tables to create a curated contrast. Reupholstering the seat pads in neutral linen or bold contemporary patterns allows traditional forms to integrate smoothly into modern colour schemes.

Keep timber frames away from direct heat sources and sunlight to prevent cracking and bleaching. Clean wood surfaces with a soft, dry cloth and apply beeswax periodically to nourish the mahogany finish; vacuum fabric upholstery gently using a soft brush attachment.

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Set of Six Hepplewhite Dining Chairs Circa 1790