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ID #SA1231585
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Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps or Chair Ladder
Sold by Elmgarden
sold SA1231585
Sorry, but this item has been sold.
Elmgarden

Elmgarden

Sellingantiques Verified Since Feb 2010
Browse dealers 765 items
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Id #SA1231585
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Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps or Chair Ladder

1900 - 1920
Sold by Elmgarden
Description

Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps or Chair Ladder

A very useful piece, this handy little chair can be flipped over and turned into a small 4 step ladder, originally this type of chair was used in a Library hence the name, but it would work just as well in a shop, kitchen or anywhere a little extra height is needed

The chair is made in Walnut, it is 35” high, 16” wide, and 22” deep at the floor when set as a step

PM170.

To get an accurate delivery quote please send the item number with your location to Elmgarden Antiques.

Physical Dimensions
Height
90cm (35.43")
Width
41cm (16.14")
Depth
64cm (25.20")
Declaration

Elmgarden has dated these Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps to the Edwardian era.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1231585
Dealers Internal Reference
PM170
Description
Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps or Chair Ladder

A very useful piece, this handy little chair can be flipped over and turned into a small 4 step ladder, originally this type of chair was used in a Library hence the name, but it would work just as well in a shop, kitchen or anywhere a little extra height is needed

fig 1. An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder.
fig 1. Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps or Chair Ladder

The chair is made in Walnut, it is 35” high, 16” wide, and 22” deep at the floor when set as a step

PM170.

“
To get an accurate delivery quote please send the item number with your location to Elmgarden Antiques.
Elmgarden
Height
90cm (35.43")
Width
41cm (16.14")
Depth
64cm (25.20")
Date of Manufacture

Elmgarden has dated these Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps to the Edwardian era.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1231585
Dealers Internal Ref
PM170
Elmgarden
Elmgarden
Sellingantiques verified Since Feb 2010
Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Elmgarden Profile Page

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An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. SOLD29 SEP 26
1 / 7
Archive I An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. SOLD29 SEP 26

Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps or Chair Ladder

Archive II An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. View II
Archive III An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. View III
Archive IV An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. View IV
Archive V An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. View V
Archive VI An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. View VI
Archive VII An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder. View VII
Enlarged Archival View
Elmgarden

Elmgarden
Telephone 07768 997 907
Location
Hampshire
United Kingdom
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/elmgarden
Verified Since Feb 2010
Items For Sale 765
Items Sold 5,584
Elmgarden
Elmgarden
Verified Since Feb 2010
View Dealer Info
Location: Hampshire , United Kingdom
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/elmgarden
Verified
Feb 2010
For Sale
765
Sold
5,584
An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder.
Edwardian Metamorphic Library Steps or Chair Ladder
Ref: SA1231585
An Edwardian metamorphic dark wood chair unfolded into a four-step library ladder.
Detail View 1
Detail View 2
Detail View 3
Detail View 4
Detail View 5
Detail View 6
Archival Detail

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectLibrary Steps
  • Period1900 - 1920
  • StyleEdwardian
  • MaterialHardwood, Oak
  • ColourDark Brown
  • MotifsHinged frame, Slatted backrest, Rectangular steps, Tapered legs
  • SizeH 90 cm (35 in) x W 41 cm (16 in) x D 64 cm (25 in)

This Edwardian metamorphic library steps or chair ladder is an ingenious piece of utilitarian furniture designed to transform from a chair into a four-step ladder. Fashioned from dark brown hardwood with visible grain, the construction includes a slatted backrest, tapered legs, and turned supports on the lower section, all finished with clean, straight mouldings and visible joints. The surface shows gentle patination and softening consistent with age and practical service. Standing 90 cm high, 41 cm wide, and 64 cm deep, it provides a compact yet sturdy footprint that fits easily into limited floor spaces. Originally intended for a gentleman's library, this versatile item adapts readily to contemporary living spaces. It functions effectively as a spare seat or an occasional piece in a study, kitchen, bedroom, or dressing area, while offering instant access to high shelves when needed. The dual-purpose design makes it a practical solution for homes with elevated storage or tall bookcases, combining everyday seating utility with functional elevation in a single traditional form.

FAQs

Metamorphic library steps are dual-purpose mechanical furniture items designed to convert from a side chair into a small ladder or flight of steps, allowing access to higher bookshelves.

These pieces were typically crafted from durable hardwoods such as mahogany, oak, and walnut, often using brass hinges and solid timber joinery to support structural movement.

Authentic period examples feature period-correct joinery, original iron or brass conversion hinges, hand-turned or clean-lined timber legs, and visible historical wear along the tread edges.

They serve well in modern home offices, studies, or living rooms alongside tall bookcases, functioning as functional step ladders, plant stands, or side seating.

Clean regularly with a dry microfibre cloth, apply high-grade beeswax polish annually to protect the timber, and ensure the metal hinges remain lightly oiled and free of rust.
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