From the World of Antique Seating: Oak Settles

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Friday, October 01, 2021

Antique sofas, armchairs, and a whole variety of antique dining chairs such as Windsor chairs, ladder back chairs and the like are the kinds commonly heard of. But antique settles are unusual and not as common as their other seating counterparts. What exactly are they then?

A few quick facts about antique settles;
They are wooden English antique benches often featuring a high back and open arms, typically constructed using oak primarily or other woods that were locally sourced. Antique settles originated somewhere around the early 17th Century. The design was pretty simple with the construction having clout nails or pegs. While most of the settles showcased simple carvings with raised plain panels for the back, there were those that were highly decorative with beautiful carvings.

Settles were nothing but gigantic chairs meant to seat more people and were a common feature in taverns, pubs, and even farmhouses. They are characterful pieces of furniture that are unusual but have the most amazing charm. Some of the Victorian pieces incorporated internal storage underneath the seat.

Here is a magnificent and rare gothic high-backed Anglo-French settle with charming decorative detail. This exceptionally rare box seated settle has a wonderfully pale medieval colour with traces of original polychrome and gilding seen in the extremities of the carving. This fantastic settle comes from Hever Castle, Kent. A striking piece that can be added to a hallway or even utilised in commercial spaces.

Our collection features many more exceptional options. Browse through our site to have a look.