1943 GR VI Old Carver Chair

At over 70 years old, this is the oldest piece of furniture I have in stock!

A strong statement chair with fabulous patina - if only it could tell its story?
Whilst researching this piece a number of different histories came up, the first was information on the royal stamp and the date on the chair “GR VI 1943 “ ( please look at the photos) also the word WANDS ?

Initially I found:

A much sought after chair from the coronation of King George VI in 1937 at West Minster Abbey. Favoured guests at the coronation sat on these chairs and were invited to purchase them after the ceremony as souvenirs.
Upholstered in a pale green coloured velvet, it has a concave backrest above a concave upholstered seat. Standing on square legs, the front have tapered carvings at top and bottom. The backrest is embroidered with the Royal monogram of George VI, “GR” under a crown.
To the underside of the seat rail of the chair is the makers stamp; W.Hands & Sons (one of two companies who supplied these chairs) along with date (1937) and another “GR” monogram.

But, whilst the Royal Crest is present, the date is 1943, the stamping is WANDS and there is no upholstery !

I then found an exactly identical chair - apart from the markings; this chair was advertised as an ex RAF fire station Air Ministry beech Utility WW2 armchair made by Scottish maker Joseph Johnstone in 1943 has the GR V1 stamped to the underside of the frame.

So, we know how old it is, that it has royal connections but that’s about it! It’s not perfect but it’s perfect for its age !

No repairs where required on this chair and is still in useable condition, solid and sturdy with no evidence of woodworm.

Approximate Measurements
Height 80 cm
Width 57 cm
Depth 42 cm
Seat height 43.5 cm


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