Unusual Sheraton Design Reading Chair in Red Leather - English c.1890

An unusual English Sheraton design reading chair, circa 1890, with red leather, brass studs and an adjustable reading stand. Sculptural, functional and highly decorative. Why We Love This.… Furniture designed with a specific purpose often has the most character. This reading chair is wonderfully idiosyncratic - practical yet theatrical, scholarly yet playful. The combination of Sheraton influence, rich leather upholstery and clever functionality makes it a standout piece with real presence. At a Glance – Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility: • Date: Circa 1890 • Origin: England • Style: Sheraton design reading chair / cock‑fighting chair form • Materials: Mahogany, red leather, brass studs Condition: • Good overall condition • Leather presents beautifully • Frame sound and well preserved Notable Details: • Adjustable reading stand • Brass studded leather upholstery • Unusual and distinctive form Decorative Appeal: • A rare combination of design interest and practical function Versatility: • Ideal for libraries, studies or statement interiors Collectibility: • Unusual Sheraton‑inspired seating is increasingly sought after Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase Heritage, History & Craftsmanship: An unusual and highly decorative Sheraton‑design reading chair, English and dating from around 1890. Inspired by a design attributed to Thomas Sheraton, this distinctive chair relates closely to the form of a traditional cock‑fighting chair, adapted here for reading and leisure. The chair is constructed with a mahogany frame and retains beautifully upholstered red leather, finished with refined brass stud work. A particular highlight is the adjustable reading stand, an elegant and practical feature that reinforces the chair’s intended purpose. The proportions are well judged, and the overall effect is both sculptural and functional.  This is a piece that immediately draws attention, combining intellectual curiosity, craftsmanship and strong decorative appeal. Thomas Sheraton’s designs emphasised elegance, proportion and thoughtful utility. Chairs inspired by his work often adapted earlier forms for refined domestic use. This reading chair reflects that lineage, blending historic reference with late‑19th‑century comfort and craftsmanship, and offering insight into changing habits of leisure and study. Social History: By the late 19th century, literacy, private study and domestic reading had become central to middle‑ and upper‑class life. Specialised seating - from reading chairs to metamorphic library steps - reflected this cultural shift. This chair sits firmly within that tradition: a hybrid of earlier cock‑fighting forms and refined Sheraton‑influenced design, intended to support long periods of reading, writing or study. Its adjustable stand hints at a world of books, journals and correspondence, where comfort and intellectual engagement were intertwined. Condition: • Good overall condition • Leather upholstery in excellent, richly patinated order • Brass studwork intact and well presented • Mahogany frame sound, stable and well preserved • Light rubbing to legs and surface areas consistent with age • Reading stand mechanism functional and secure Provenance: • Sourced within England • Selected for its unusual form and Sheraton design lineage • Chosen for its sculptural presence, quality upholstery and intact reading stand Terminology by Style; • Cock‑Fighting Chair Form: A 18th–19th century seating type with forward‑leaning posture, later adapted for reading • Sheraton Design: Inspired by Thomas Sheraton’s emphasis on elegance, proportion and refined utility • Adjustable Reading Stand: A hinged support designed to hold books or papers at a comfortable angle • Brass Studwork: Decorative and functional nailhead trim used to secure leather upholstery • Mahogany Frame: A durable hardwood valued for strength, stability and fine grain Styling Suggestions: •Perfect for a library, study or reading room •Works beautifully in country house or eclectic interiors •An excellent focal piece alongside bookcases or desks •Adds character and conversation to more contemporary settings Explore Every Facet: These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase • Adjustable reading stand mechanism • Red leather upholstery and patina • Brass stud detailing • Mahogany frame and proportions • Overall sculptural form Sustainable Style: Thank you for considering this English Sheraton Design Reading Chair, circa 1890 -  a choice that is both culturally and environmentally responsible … in every sense, the most sustainable item is the one that endures. Choosing distinctive antique furniture preserves historic craftsmanship and avoids the need for new production. This chair continues to serve its original purpose while bringing history, design and individuality into modern interiors. Purchase with Confidence: White’s Antiques carefully selects every item for authenticity, character, craftsmanship, and decorative presence - ensuring that each piece carries both aesthetic and historic value. Every item is described and photographed with care, offering complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. We are an established and trusted resource for both trade and private collectors. You are warmly invited to visit our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex, to experience our curated collections firsthand, explore the stories behind each piece, and appreciate these timeless furnishings in person. Delivery & Collection Information: • Delivery is not included - please use the Delivery Quote tab prior to purchase • Collection welcome from our Sussex showroom • Local delivery available • Nationwide couriers arranged on request