Antique Iron Frame Rocking Chair By R W Winfield

A superb early 19th Century example of R W Winfield Iron Rocking Chair. History The firm of R.W. Winfield, one of the largest and most celebrated of English brassfounders, who exhibited works, including a brass version of the rocking chair at the Great Exhibition of 1851. It is also documented that Charles Dickens owned an iron rocking chair when he lived at 1 Devonshire Terrace, London, in 1944. Though elegant in appearance, the heavy frame made them impractical and the introduction of bentwood proved more popular in the late Victorian era. This heavy iron example is a very early example and is almost certainly by R W Winfield and pre-dates the 1851 example of the chair. The frame, being of wrought iron constriction, is forged with layers of iron bar riveted to form the elegant sweeping design. The frame leading to the arms has been skilfully formed with rounded edges to provide a soft edge to the iron. This model has a full iron circle within the frame which is unusual compared to later models and points towards this being an earlier production or prototype. The frame being completely original retains the iron cross bars with large brass and steel bolts. The sling leather upholstery has been wonderfully crafted to retain the originality and quality of the piece. A truly exceptional chair which will adorn any interior.