Elizabeth I Oak and Fruitwood Inlaid Armchair

Elizabeth I Oak and Fruitwood Inlaid Armchair, the back carved with bold geometric panels and strapwork, framed by scrolled cresting. The top rail and diamond lozenges to the front legs are inlaid with fruitwood. The shaped arms, also in fruitwood, rest on carved and turned supports with elongated gadrooning. The seat rail is decorated with lunettes, repeated on the front stretcher, while unusually the rear seat rail is cut-out and decorated — a refinement not often encountered. The reverse side of the back is also carved with gadrooned ornament, showing that the chair was intended to be admired from all angles. Standing on block feet joined by stretchers, the chair has developed a rich, deep patina with excellent surface colour.