What is a georgian gainsborough chair?

A georgian gainsborough chair is a wide, upholstered armchair with open padded arms, originating in the eighteenth century. It was designed for comfort in libraries and studies. The form combines a sturdy wooden frame, often mahogany or walnut, with texturised coverings like leather or tapestry fabric. Its generous proportions distinguish it from standard dining seating.

How were these chairs used originally?

These armchairs served primarily in libraries, private studies, and formal reception rooms for reading, writing, and conversation. Their wide seats accommodated the voluminous clothing of the period. They functioned both as freestanding reading chairs and as desk chairs for correspondence. Their mobility allowed them to be placed near fire pits or writing tables as needed.

How do I distinguish eighteenth century from later revival pieces?

Eighteenth-century pieces display construction methods, tool marks, and timber ageing consistent with the period of manufacture. Carpenters used specific joinery techniques that evolved over time. Revival examples, produced around nineteen-ten or eighteen-ninety, often replicate earlier styles using machine assistance or standardised hardware. Examining the underside and interior frame helps reveal the actual age of the timber.

What upholstery materials are authentic?

Authentic and period-appropriate coverings include smooth leather, tapestry fabric, and hand-worked needlepoint. These materials were chosen for durability and tactile comfort. Many pieces have been re-upholstered over the centuries to maintain their condition. Surviving original textiles are uncommon, so modern coverings often match historical precedents.

How do I care for a leather or tapestry chair?

Leather upholstery requires regular conditioning to prevent drying and cracking, while avoiding direct sunlight and excessive heat. Gentle dusting preserves the surface finish. Tapestry and fabric coverings benefit from careful vacuuming with a soft brush attachment. Professional textile cleaning is recommended for deeper maintenance without damaging the underlying stuffing.

Home > Georgian Gainsborough Chair > Page 3

Georgian Gainsborough Chair

43 items · page 3 of 3

← Page 3 of 3 →

A georgian gainsborough chair offers generous proportions and upholstered comfort, making it a distinguished choice for any library or desk.

George 11 Style Mahogany Gainsborough Arm Chair

19th century

Save

George 11 Style Mahogany Gainsborough Arm Chair

From Patrick Moorhead Antiques

£6,800

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

19th century

Save

19th Century Chippendale Style Mahogany Gainsborough Armchair

From Patrick Sandberg Antiques

£5,800

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

18th century

Save

Gainsborough Upholstered Open Armchair

From Midwinter Antiques

£1,600

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

19th century

Save

Large Gainsborough Armchair

From Ropeworks Antiques

£880

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

18th century

Save

18th Century Mahogany Gainsborough Armchair

From Patrick Sandberg Antiques

£4,200

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

A George II Style Mahogany Gainsborough/library Arm Chair

19th century

Save

A George II Style Mahogany Gainsborough/library Arm Chair

From W.J. Gravener Antiques Ltd.

£3,250

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

1900 - 1920

Save

Georgian Style Walnut Library Armchair

From Harrison Antique Furniture

£790

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

1900 - 1920

Save

A Pair of Early 20th Century Walnut Gainsborough Armchairs

From Chequers Antiques

£2,450

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

19th century

Save

Gainsborough Chair

From Midwinter Antiques

£1,200

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

19th century

Save

Antique Rare Design Mahogany 19th Century Gainsborough Open Elbow Upholstered Library Reading Armchair. C.1880.

From CJ Antiques

£3,500

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

Listings feature pieces spanning the eighteenth century, nineteen-ten, and eighteen hundred, utilising mahogany, brass, wood, leather, and tapestry fabric.

Antique Regency Georgian Mahogany Framed Leather Upholstered Library Reading Easy Occasional Club Tub Gillows Design Gainsborough Armchair Chair.

19th century

Save

Antique Regency Georgian Mahogany Framed Leather Upholstered Library Reading Easy Occasional Club Tub Gillows Design Gainsborough Armchair Chair.

From CJ Antiques

£2,000

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

← 1 2 3 →

Georgian Gainsborough Chair

George 11 Style Mahogany Gainsborough Arm Chair

19th Century Chippendale Style Mahogany Gainsborough Armchair

Gainsborough Upholstered Open Armchair

Large Gainsborough Armchair

18th Century Mahogany Gainsborough Armchair

A George II Style Mahogany Gainsborough/library Arm Chair

Georgian Style Walnut Library Armchair

A Pair of Early 20th Century Walnut Gainsborough Armchairs

Gainsborough Chair

Antique Rare Design Mahogany 19th Century Gainsborough Open Elbow Upholstered Library Reading Armchair. C.1880.

Antique Regency Georgian Mahogany Framed Leather Upholstered Library Reading Easy Occasional Club Tub Gillows Design Gainsborough Armchair Chair.

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Movements

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Freshness

Online Payments

Categories