A good Regency metamorphic library chair / library steps; unusual in simulated faux rosewood; in the manner of Morgan and Saunders; the curved top rail with a rollover moulded edge above a central rope twist rail. The well scrolled arms above the cane seat having a loose leather buttoned cushion. The curved seat rail raised on sabre legs terminating in brass castors. The back stretcher having a brass release button allowing the hinged seat to open and convert into the library steps. The four graduating treads with tooled leather inset panels.
English circa 1820
Very good condition. Lovely surface and colour
Dimensions (ins) Chair 23.5 wide x 24 deep x 35 high; seat height 19; height of top step 28
Based on a design for a metamorphic library chair published by Morgan & Sanders circa 1810 (P Agius, Ackermann's Regency Furniture & Interiors). According to Ackermann, the chair was a "truly novel and useful articles .....considered the best and handsomest article ever yet invented."
