Arthur Simpson Of Kendal

Arthur Simpson Of Kendal "Heron" chair

Code: 10809

POA
An excellent walnut (poss mix of walnut & mahogany) framed & leather easy chair; beautifully carved.
Designed and made by Arthur Simpson of Kendal; c1918
 
Sometimes known as the Tom Heron chair, in view of the private unique commission that Tom and his wife Eulalie made c1918 for furniture (including chairs) for their home in Leeds. Tom Heron was, amongst other things, an art lover & entrepreneur,
textiles manufacturer (Crysede in Cornwall then later Cresta Silks in Welwyn Garden City), pacifist, socialist, non-conformist and leading member of the Leeds Art Club. Open scrolling arms with fading bead, typical of Simpson’s designs and a raked shaped for
comfort. Lovely chair back recurved bow shaped cresting rails with a central peak; the front legs terminating in octagonal spade feet.

Original leather hide seat and back. Been in the same family since purchased. 
 
A similar later c1920’s version (Model 8940 with a plain foot) is illustrated in
“ The Simpsons of Kendal” by Eleanor Davidson fig.65.
Further ref: Journal of the Decorative Arts Society No. 4 p35 where there is an archive photo of Tom &
Eulalie Heron, with Tom sitting on another Arthur Simpson chair; part of the larger 1918
commission.
The Beautiful Furniture of the Simpsons of Kendal by Hugh Wright; several references.
 
We also have a similar pair in oak (His & Hers) versions (those now SOLD)