Fine Set of Six Arts & Crafts Oak & Leather Dining Chairs - Retailed by Goodyers, London

A fine and unusual set of six English Arts & Crafts oak dining chairs, circa 1900, comprising five side chairs and a matching open armchair. The striking high backs are centred by broad shaped splats, each pierced to the upper section with a pair of heart motifs, and enclosed by gently tapering oak uprights. The chairs retain their aged leather upholstered seats with close brass studding and stand on square tapering legs with subtly shaped feet. The armchair follows the same distinctive design, with square supports and gently shaped open arms. It is of particular interest, the armchair retains its original metal retailer's label for Goodyers, Regent St. & Bond St., London W., the celebrated London retailer of Arts & Crafts and Aesthetic Movement furniture and a contemporary rival of Liberty & Co. The chairs also bear impressed “G.W. Stocks” marks beneath the seats. The set has a particularly strong architectural quality typical of the Arts & Crafts movement, while the pierced heart decoration gives the otherwise restrained design a charming and highly distinctive character. The original/period leather shows attractive wear and crazing consistent with age and use, particularly to the armchair, while the oak has developed a warm colour and patina.