A fine Charles II carved oak backstool with seat compartment, Lancashire last quarter 17th century

the scrolled cresting rail flanked by 'tent pole' finials, the back panel with lozenge and stylised star motifs, the boarded seat with hinged section enclosing a shallow well, the square and squat baluster supports joined by peripheral stretchers

Illustrated Tobias Jellinek, Early British Chairs and Seats from 1500 to 1700, Woodbridge, Forthcoming (2009), pl. 393.

Good and of superb colour and with broad proportions. Some old chipping and indents throughout. One 'tent pole' finial with old splits, minor shrinkage to back panel and typical wear to seat. Compartment with separation to floor. Legs with some old partial splits and with fragmenting to feet. Some movement in seat frame. This backstool has presence with a rare hinged seat compartment.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The presence of pyramid shape finials or 'tent poles' to the cresting rail is usually indicative of manufacture in the Lancashire area. For a similar backstool with the same see Victor Chinnery, Oak Furniture, The British Tradition, Woodbridge, 1979, p. 481-485.

For two backstools, known as the Garrard Chairs also from Lancashire, with the same hinged seat section enclosing a shallow well see Oak, Country Furniture, Folk Art and Works of Art, Christie's South Kensington, 8th July 1998, lot 812.