Item Report
English William and Mary Period Oak & Cane High Back Chairs (Pair)
By: Unknown (typical of regional English workshops of the period)
Style: William and Mary Period, English Baroque
Origin: England
Materials: Oak, cane (handwoven rattan)
Age: Circa 1680-1720
Condition: Good (substantial expected wear, possible re-caning, structurally stable but some joints and stretchers may show movement or old repairs)
Value: $700 - $1,200 (for the pair, auction estimate)
Maker's Marks / Writing: No visible maker's mark or inscriptions, as typical for period English furniture of this type.
Date: 2025-06-20 20:13:52.024395
Description:
A pair of high-backed side chairs dating from the William and Mary period, late 17th to early 18th century. The chairs are constructed of oak, with caned seats and backs. Their design features turned front legs and stretchers, elongated stiles, a pierced and arched crest rail, and characteristic baluster turning. The arched and bracketed crest, as well as the prominent caning, are signatures of this transitional period in English furniture, indicative of both Baroque influences and increasing comfort/fashion during the era.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
These are genuine examples of English William and Mary period side chairs with high, caned backs, combining both decorative and practical elements of the post-Restoration period. They show overall honest wear and patina, consistent with their age. The presence of original (or early replacement) caning, substantial wear to stretchers and surfaces, and traditional pegged construction all align with period manufacture. Such chairs are increasingly rare as pairs, especially with harmonious wear and natural patina.
Individual Images:
whole item
Provenance:
No provenance information provided.
Condition:
Good (substantial expected wear, possible re-caning, structurally stable but some joints and stretchers may show movement or old repairs)
Identification Score: 95%
The distinctive arched crest, baluster turning, and period-appropriate cane work support a highly confident identification as authentic William and Mary period English chairs.
Authenticity Score: 85%
Significant honest wear, hand-shaped wood, pegged joints, proper 17th/early 18th-century proportions, and surface patina strongly support authenticity. While some structural repairs and possible re-caning are likely after 300+ years, the core components and style are consistent with period originals.
Image Memory Note
Pair of high-backed English oak and cane William and Mary chairs featuring arched crest and turned elements with old patina; wear and potential re-caning typical for age.
Keywords
William and Mary, English Baroque, 17th century, oak chair, cane seat, antique high back chair, England, period furniture, pair
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