An antique 19th century rare vernacular Irish lambing chair

An antique 19th century rare vernacular lambing chair, fresh to market and sourced from Northern Ireland. 

The styling of the chair and presence of the unusual footrest suggest the chair's origins are closer to Yorkshire, more so than the emerald isles. 

As to why then the chair ended up overseas throws up several questions, the main one being why and you would move a hefty piece like this when you could simply make another?  

One potential answer is the chair was indeed made by the hand of a Yorkshire man, who may have come to reside in Ireland. That's a nice simple solution, but the mystery is all part of this amazing piece's charm. 

My personal thoughts on the chair's design are based around the concept of this type of vernacular furniture. In which the maker's imagination, skill level and the environmental factors would often influence the way a piece of furniture would look. 

This is a quite rustic example of a lambing chair, made from pine and oak, which utilises heavy duty construction methods. Not only were nails used but the extensive use of square head threaded bolts. This type of bolt more commonly used in the mid to late 19th century would certainly ensure the chair's durability and give a good firm fix. Overkill some might say. 

The presence of these bolts is not common in this type of chair and yet another little feature which strengthens its vernacular aesthetic. 

The chair was designed for the purpose of nursing lambs, with the single armrest allowing for easier bottle feeding. 

Through research we have struggled to find another lambing chair with a footrest comparable to the one on this example. 

Behind the footrest is an enclosed recess which lambs would sleep inside. 

Another lovely feature is the simple handle to the rear of the backrest. Obviously uniquely designed to allow the chair to be moved around more easily. 

The chair is found in original condition and with a dark red stain. Raised on simple rockers to allow the chair to be rocked gently. 

A true honest vernacular lambing chair, of the likes which have become increasingly popular and never more desirable. 

Dimensions:-

Depth - 68cm 

Widest point - 76cm

Height - 122cm

Seat depth - 45cm

Seat width - 69cm

Seat height - 47cm

Backrest height - 87.5cm

The carcass is mostly in a dry state with a slightly smoother texture to the seat panel. 

Structurally sound and ready to use. 

A historic crack is present the right hand side panel which is due to a bolt passing through a natural weakness in the grain of the timber. 

Small areas of historic non active worm, this has been thoroughly treated for additional peace of mind. 

No rot, no signs of restoration. 

*Delivery fee is based on UK mainland, buyers located in Scotland and Wales please make contact prior to committing to purchase to request a shipping quote*