Duck and Fish Decoys, Folk Art, Art Glass, Decorative Arts and Furniture
Lot 94:
Description
An American metamorphic library step chair, also referred to as a Ben Franklin chair, designed to function as both a side chair and a four-step ladder. The piece is constructed of solid oak and features pegged mortise and tenon joinery, visible as dark circular plugs throughout the frame and seat. The chair is composed of two main sections connected by heavy-duty metal hinges at the seat level, allowing the backrest and rear portion of the seat to flip forward to form the step structure. The backrest is designed with two curved horizontal slats and a shaped crest rail. No maker marks, labels, or stamps are present on the piece.
Overall Height as Chair: 34.5 inches
Seat Height: 17.75 inches
Seat Width: 15.75 inches.
Condition report:
This item is in fair to good vintage condition. There is significant finish wear and loss on the tops of both back posts, exposing bare wood. The front edge of the seat shows scattered scratches and finish rubbing. Two drilled holes are present on the right side of the seat surface, indicating missing pins or a latch mechanism. General surface scuffs and minor nicks are present throughout the legs and steps. The conversion hinges appear intact and functional.
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