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Exceptional Regency Armchair attributed to George Oakley

About the Item

An exceptional quality, early 19th century Regency period open armchair, of well-shaped Klismos outline and rare generous proportions, attributed to George Oakley, England, circa 1810. Why we like it Its exquisite inlaid brass decoration together with the timeless Klismos form, derived from ancient Greek chairs, make this chair a rare example of its kind. Certainly one the most sophisticated examples of open armchairs ever produced during the Regency period, and perhaps, during the entire 19th century. Condition Seat-rails and legs are restorations. Attribution to George Oakley Extremely rare with this particular form of front legs, derived from the ancient Greek 'Klismos' seats, this chair features exquisite brass inlay throughout, traditionally associated with the oeuvre of George Oakley (1773-1840), one of the most prominent London furniture-makers of the early 19th century. A pair of side chairs with identical decoration is illustrated in Ronald Phillips, fine Antique English Furniture 2018, pp. 158-159. A sofa table, with Boulle-inlays identical to the ones displayed on the back of this armchair, is illustrated in Mallett, The age of Matthew Boulton - Masterpieces of neo-classicism, London, 2000, pp. 112-113. This sofa table belongs to a group of furniture firmly attributed to George Oakley and almost certainly originates from the same workshop with the present chair. An identically decorated daybed, en-suite with the present armchair, is illustrated in the same Mallett's catalogue, pp. 94-95. George Oakley (1773–1840) The firm of George Oakley produced stylish furniture in the Grecian taste during the decades spanning the turn of the 19th century, and was one of the pioneers of ‘Buhl’ inlay, a form of decoration that regained popularity during the early years of the Regency. The high-class furniture made by George Oakley earned him a royal appointment and a contemporary reputation for fine craftsmanship.  Measurements Height: 35 in / 88.5 cm Depth: 24.5 in / 62 cm Width: 25 in / 63 cm Seat Height: 18.5 in / 47 cm
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 35 in (88.9 cm)Width: 25 in (63.5 cm)Depth: 25 in (63.5 cm)Seat Height: 18.5 in (46.99 cm)
  • Style:
    Regency (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1810
  • Condition:
    Replacements made: Seat-rails and legs are restorations. Reupholstered. Wear consistent with age and use. Excellent restored condition, ready to be used and enjoyed. Seat-rails and legs are restorations.
  • Seller Location:
    Richmond, GB
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1781238831942
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