What is a Gainsborough chair?

A Gainsborough chair is a wide, open-armed seat designed during the eighteenth century for reading or writing at a desk. These pieces typically feature mahogany frames with padded leather upholstery on the seat and back.

How do I spot a revival piece?

Revival pieces are later interpretations made during the nineteenth or twentieth century in imitation of earlier eighteenth-century designs. They often utilise standardised machine-cut timber elements rather than the hand-shaped joinery found on period originals.

Where were these chairs used?

These seats were originally commissioned for the principal rooms of large houses, including libraries, studies and drawing rooms. Their sturdy leather and hardwood construction made them suitable for daily reading and administrative work.

How do I care for old leather?

Historic leather benefits from gentle cleaning and periodic treatment with suitable conservation waxes to prevent the hide from drying out. Keeping the chair away from direct sunlight and heat sources preserves the natural flexibility of the material.