Extremely Rare Tripod Chair, possibly ex-Holyrood Palace

Extremely Rare Tripod Chair, possibly ex-Holyrood PalaceA highly unusual Queen Anne style ball and claw tripod chair in its original leather upholstery. Unexpectedly generous proportions and heavy weight. Scotland or Ireland, circa 1880. Ongoing research has uncovered a set of identical chairs in the apartment of the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, decorated by none other than John Fowler, and illustrated in a book by John Cornworth titled The Inspiration From The Past: Country

A highly unusual Queen Anne style ball-and-claw tripod chair in its original leather upholstery. Unexpectedly generous proportions and heavy weight. Scotland or Ireland, circa 1880.

Ongoing research has uncovered a set of identical chairs in the apartment of the Duke and Duchess of Hamilton at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, decorated by none other than John Fowler, and illustrated in a book by John Cornworth titled ‘The Inspiration From The Past: Country House Taste In The Twentieth Century’ (second image). This lends credibility to the idea that the chair may have originally formed part of that same set.

Why we like it

We were absolutely captivated by this bold and truly singular Queen Anne-style tripod chair when we came across it. An extremely well drawn back and sculpted rear cabriole legs together with its generous proportions defy expectations, while the perfectly preserved original leather upholstery is a rarity in itself. Unlike anything we have ever encountered, it stands as a daring testament to the early 18th-century design and craftsmanship —unusual, intriguing, and strikingly self-assured. It commands attention and rewards it with an enduring sense of character.

Dimensions

Width: 50 cm / 19.75”
Depth: 60 cm / 23.625”
Height: 94 cm / 37”

Condition

Fine antique condition, great colour and patination, original leather.