Early C19th ''metamorphic'' oak library armchair / steps in the manner of Richard Hicks Bridgens (1785-1846).
Rare form of metamorphic oak library armchair and flight of 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 flight 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-res
...t , 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
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Internal Reference: ML 1906
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA626100
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
Height is 81cm (31.9inches)Width is 54cm (21.3inches)Depth is 61cm (24.0inches)
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