Bobbin Correctional Chair, British, c. 1880

Correctional chairs were originally conceived by 18th century surgeon and anatomist, Sir Astley Paston Cooper, to correct the posture of slouching children. The shallow seat and high back, with horizontal posts added at calculated intervals force a child to sit ‘correctly’.

century and of British origin, what makes this small child’s chair so beautiful is the patina of the dark beech wood, and the wonderful turner details on the back and legs. The vertical posts of the chair arch slightly outwards, at the base, a further detail not usually seen on such utilitarian and puritanical piece.

The seat consists of its original caning, which we have carefully restored to a stronger condition.

The seat would make a wonderful stand for a sculpture or could function as a focal point in its own right.