Antique Georgian-Style English Reading Chair or “Cockfighting Chair”

Details

Description

Betting that you’ve not seen one of these before, this distinctive piece of furniture is an iconic English Reading Chair … Read more Betting that you’ve not seen one of these before, this distinctive piece of furniture is an iconic English Reading Chair (also historically referred to as a "Cockfighting Chair" or library chair). This specialty piece was designed specifically for reading, writing, or studying while straddling it backward. The user would sit facing the backrest, resting their arms comfortably along the broad, upholstered U-shaped top rail. The clever wooden panel on the back is a hinged, flip-up writing slope or book lectern. This one can be lifted and propped open on a ratchet or bracket system to hold a book, notebook, or documents flat or at an ergonomic reading angle. (Unsure of the flip-up lectern usage for cockfighting.)

ORIGINS: The style dates back to the Georgian era (circa 1740–1780). However, given the specific combination of front cabriole legs and simpler straight back legs, this chair is likely a high-quality late 19th-century or early 20th-century revival piece built to replicate 18th-century designs.

MATERIALS: The exposed woodwork—including the cabriole legs, straight rear legs and the flip-up desk panel—was crafted from walnut which was highly valued for its rich grain and structural strength. The piece is upholstered in a patinated brown leather wrap over thick padding and accented with continuous rows of classic antiqued brass nailhead trim.

Signature/Maker’s Mark: Nonexistent. Depth with hinged flap is open: 27” See less