This ladderback chair, one of a set of six, might have been used in a parlour - a family living room that was also used for dining. The seat is upholstered in leather tufted with wool, which appears to be original. Leather was particularly favoured for dining rooms, as it was easy to clean and did not absorb food smells.
The ladderback style chair was originally made in the country, typically for cottages and farmhouses, and usually of British woods, such as beech and ash. This ‘wavy-line’ ladderback is similar to examples made in Lancashire. The type was imitated, and refined, in London workshops, as in this example. The London origin of this particular chair is revealed by the use of mahogany, the fine detailing of the top corners and back feet and the square, rather than round-section, legs and stretchers.