Object Description
Pair of unusually large fruitwood, probably pearwood, armchairs with the original needlework backs and covers depicting Autumn and Winter, the downswept moulded arms with wavy chamfered supports terminating in turned faceted front legs united by shaped flat H stretchers, French, possibly Lyon, late 17th century
Two of the four seasons are depicted. The seated female representative of Autumn is seen holding a cornucopia and sickle and at her feet are bound sheaves of wheat, the seat also with a sheaf of wheat and birds below a fruiting apple tree. Winter is depicted swathed in ermine furs and holding a face screen to protect her complexion from the flaming brazier beside her.