Jason Clarke Antiques has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
These so called lightning stools were used in conjunction with early electrostatic devices such as the Nairne Pattern or Ramsden machines which were developed for electrical experimentation during the latter part of the Eighteenth Century. They would insulate the user from grounding themselves while operating said machines.
I have a very similar example which is contained within a cased Nairne Pattern machine by George Adams of Fleet Street and this example would likely have been provided as part of a similar set when it was first retailed.
These are always somewhat functionally built although few have survived over the years. An interesting addition to a collection of early electrostatic instruments.
Circa 1770
Jason Clarke Antiques has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Jason Clarke Antiques Profile Page
Eighteenth Century Electrostatic Insulating Stool or Lightning Stool
