Earlier 19th Century English Papier Mâché & Mother of Pearl Low Chair

A remarkable 19th century English papier mâché low chair, dating to the Victorian period and richly decorated with mother of pearl inlay, hand painted florals and delicate gilt detailing.

The dramatic elongated back features twisted uprights, turned finials and an elaborate pierced crest, all finished in the characteristic glossy black surface of Victorian papier mâché. At its center, a beautifully hand painted floral bouquet is surrounded by an intricate border of shimmering mother of pearl, with additional inlay and gilded decoration continuing throughout the chair.

A woven cane seat provides a beautiful contrast to the ornate frame. Its unusually low proportions are particularly charming, measuring 38 inches tall by 13 inches wide, with a 15 inch seat depth and a seat height of just 13.5 inches. The scale suggests it may have originally been intended for a younger sitter, although its exact original use is unknown. Because of the age and delicacy of the canes seat, this is much more of a decorative piece than it is a functional sitting chair  

The chair remains in beautiful antique condition with the expected surface wear, patina and small losses associated with its age and delicate construction. A wonderfully decorative example of 19th century English papier mâché work and an exceptional piece displayed purely as an object of Victorian decorative art.