Set of Six Anglo Indian Ebony Side Chairs

Set of Six Anglo Indian Ebony Side Chairs

These striking side chairs are a distinguished example of mid-19th century Anglo Indian furniture, blending exotic craftsmanship with classical British influence. Crafted around 1850, their sculptural form and choice of materials speak to the refined tastes of the British Raj era, offering both functional elegance and aesthetic interest.

Origin: India
Date: Circa 1850
Material: Solid ebony, brass, caned seats

Dimensions: Height: 87 cm (34.2 in), Seat Height: 46 cm (18 in), Width: 58 cm (23 in), Depth: 48 cm (19 in)

Condition: Excellent patina with minor signs of age, retaining original caning

This set of six Anglo Indian ebony side chairs exemplifies the rich cross-cultural design of the mid-Victorian period, where British forms were reinterpreted through Indian artisanship. The use of solid ebony — a prized material for its density and depth of colour — recalls high-value pieces housed in institutions such as the Victoria & Albert Museum. The high-relief carved top rails and pierced foliate motifs reflect the influence of both Regency and Mughal elements, making these chairs desirable centrepieces for collectors of antique seating.

Notable Features:

• High-relief carved ebony top rails and intricately pierced foliate back supports, showcasing exemplary artisanal skill
• Caned seats, combining comfort with traditional technique
• Faceted baluster front legs and graceful outswept rear supports, all capped in brass for elegant contrast

Design Significance:

• The chairs display a harmonious balance of Regency-inspired symmetry with the bold flourish of Indian carving. The organic foliate motifs echo the prevailing taste for the exotic during the British colonial period, while the proportions remain rooted in practical English furnishing traditions.

Collecting Value:

• Sets of six antique Anglo Indian side chairs crafted in solid ebony are extremely scarce, making this offering particularly attractive for both new and seasoned collectors. Their superb state of preservation, distinguished origin, and classic form add considerable value to any collection of antique kitchen and dining room seating.

Practical Value:

• Perfect for formal dining, display in historic interiors, or as a sophisticated highlight in a contemporary setting, this set’s enduring beauty and durability make it a practical as well as decorative investment. Whether to grace a period dining room or accentuate a curated seating collection, these Anglo Indian ebony side chairs offer a rare combination of charm, function, and collector appeal.