A Large Victorian Rococo Revival Adjustable Piano Stool
£2,450.00
Description
A substantial and finely made Victorian adjustable piano stool, carved in the Rococo Revival taste and distinguished by its robust internal mechanical height-adjustment mechanism, operated via turned side handles. This is a high-quality, decorative example, combining serious engineering with elaborate mid-19th-century ornament.
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A Large Victorian Rococo Revival Adjustable Piano Stool
Giltwood, with Heavy-Duty Mechanical Mechanism, Circa 1860–1880
England
A substantial and finely made Victorian adjustable piano stool, carved in the Rococo Revival taste and distinguished by its robust internal mechanical height-adjustment mechanism, operated via turned side handles. This is a high-quality, decorative example, combining serious engineering with elaborate mid-19th-century ornament.
The stool is constructed in finely carved giltwood, the frame enriched throughout with Rococo scrolls, acanthus foliage and asymmetrical detailing. It stands on four boldly carved cabriole legs, each carved with flowing foliage and scrollwork and terminating in shaped block feet.
The legs are united by an elaborate Rococo cross stretcher bar, deeply carved with scrolling foliage and centred by an ornate cartouche, providing both structural integrity and visual richness. The quality and depth of carving are notably strong, elevating the piece well above the more common utilitarian piano stools of the period.
The generously sized seat is upholstered in green velvet and finished with a close-set decorative braid. The upholstery is comfortably padded and well proportioned, suitable for extended periods of use.
Within the body of the stool is housed a heavy-duty internal mechanical adjustment mechanism, designed for regular and sustained use. This is operated by side-mounted winding handles, allowing the seat height to be raised or lowered smoothly, securely and precisely.
A shallow frieze drawer is fitted to one side, retaining its original turned wooden pull — a practical and increasingly uncommon feature.
Its decorative quality allows it to stand confidently as a furniture piece in its own right.
The Rococo Revival enjoyed great popularity in Britain during the mid-Victorian period, particularly for furniture intended for music rooms and drawing rooms. Adjustable piano stools of this quality, incorporating substantial mechanical systems and elaborate carved giltwood frames, were typically commissioned for affluent households where both performance and presentation were important.
The combination of Rococo carving, a working mechanical system and a drawer places this stool firmly in the upper tier of Victorian furniture production.
Private English collection.
Dealer’s Comments
“A particularly fine Rococo Revival piano stool, notable for its quality of carving and its substantial internal mechanism. The cross stretcher bar is especially well executed, giving both strength and decorative impact. A rare and highly decorative example which remains entirely practical.”
Condition Report
Very good antique condition throughout.
The adjustment mechanism operates smoothly and correctly.
Minor wear to the gilt surface and upholstery consistent with age and use. No structural issues, losses or repairs. The stool is strong, stable and ready for use.
Measurement
Height: 53 cm / 20.9 inch
Width: 106 cm / 41.7 inch
Depth: 43 cm / 16.9 inch
Weight: 25 k.g. / 55.1 lbs
Cleaning, Polishing & Restoration
All our collections have been through our workshop and where possible, we always try to maintain the original finish preserving the patina and colour, some items are sympathetically restored and this is done by our own skilled craftsmen using only traditional methods
