A particularly attractive and highly original pair of Victorian Gothic Revival solid oak hall chairs, retaining their rare original retailer's labels for Richard Henry Masters's Furnishing Warerooms, 17 Pittville Street, Cheltenham.

Constructed in beautifully figured English oak, each chair features a striking architectural back carved and pierced with Gothic tracery beneath a steeply pitched gable, flanked by moulded uprights terminating in carved fleur-de-lis finials. The design is unmistakably influenced by the Gothic movement associated with the work of A.W.N. Pugin and the medieval revival that became so fashionable during the second half of the nineteenth century.

The chairs retain their original solid oak seats with moulded edges above shaped front rails ornamented with applied roundel decoration, all raised on chamfered square legs with block feet. The backs remain exceptionally crisp with well-defined carving, while the oak has developed a rich, warm patina acquired through over 140 years of careful use.

Both chairs retain their original paper trade labels beneath the seats reading:

"From Richard Henry Masters's Furnishing Warerooms, No. 17 Pittville Street, Cheltenham. Established 1832."

Original retailer's labels of this quality are seldom encountered and provide an appealing connection to one of Cheltenham's respected nineteenth-century furnishing warehouses. Their survival on both chairs considerably enhances both provenance and collectability.

The chairs are solid, structurally sound and presented in excellent antique condition, displaying only the honest wear expected of well-preserved Victorian furniture. They retain their original finish and have not been over-restored, preserving the character and authenticity sought by collectors.

An elegant and increasingly sought-after pair, equally suited to a period country house, Gothic Revival interior, Arts & Crafts setting, or as distinctive hall or occasional chairs.

Condition

Excellent antique condition throughout. Original finish with an attractive deep oak colour and patina. Minor surface wear marks and historical repairs consistent with age and use. Original paper retailer's labels present beneath both seats. Strong, solid and ready for everyday use.

Dimensions: 93cm Height, 43cm Seat Height, 44cm Width, 47cm Depth

Price breakdown: Pair of hall chiars - £995, Courier/Delivery Fee UK MAINLAND ONLY £100

Dimensions: 93cm Height, 43cm Seat Height, 44cm Width, 47cm Depth