Victorian Walnut Balloon Back Desk Chair

A beautiful antique Victorian walnut bedroom chair or desk chair, dating from circa 1860 and made by celebrated Liverpool cabinet makers Arbuthnot Blain. This stunning example has rich warm colour and superb patina and features a beautiful padded back and carved top crest. The serpentine fronted and overstuffed seat base is sat on two expertly carved front legs. The chair is sturdy with no loose joints, it has green upholstery trimmed with gold coloured braid and is in good condition. The underside of the chair has the makers stamp. Arthur (or Arbuthnot) Blain is recorded active in Liverpool c. 1835, Arthur was established at 35 Paradise Street, Liverpool and died in 1868 and was highly regarded for his quality of craftsmanship. Born in Donegal, Ireland around 1796 his firm worked for the shipbuilders Cammell Laird and furnished the cabins for the Alabama, the fittings and furniture being selected by James Dunwoody Bulloch. The business was continued by his son William Hughes Blain, as the firm A. Blain & Sons until 1909. Construction/Wood: Walnut Condition Report: Good condition. Solid and sturdy frame. Lovely age and patina. Wear and marks commensurate with age. An old solid and well-executed mend to the top rail of the chair (see photos). Upholstery in good condition, a few small marks here and there. With makers stamp. Dimensions: Height: 93cm Width: 47cm Depth: 50cm Height to seat: 46cm