A Fine Victorian Mahogany Fireside Fendering Stool English, Circa 1860–1880

A Fine Victorian Mahogany Fireside Fendering Stool English, Circa 1860–1880 An exceptionally long and elegant Victorian mahogany fireside kneeling stool (also known as a fender stool), of impressive proportions and refined silhouette. This piece is a superior example of mid-to-late Victorian fireside furniture, designed to sit before a grand hearth, providing both comfort for kneeling and a decorative low-profile seat. The stool features a long, gently cambered stuffed-over seat, currently upholstered in a sympathetic olive-gold velvet that catches the light beautifully, accentuating the piece's substantial length. The frame is constructed from high-quality solid mahogany, boasting a rich, deep patina and a lustrous original finish. The craftsmanship is particularly evident in the hand-carved supports. Each end is defined by a pair of robust, scrolling cabriole feet, adorned with crisp acanthus leaf carvings and elegant volutes. These scrolled "scroll-over" ends are a hallmark of the high Victorian period, blending the solidity of the William IV style with the more ornate flourishes of the mid-19th century. Of particular interest to the discerning collector is the faint, handwritten ink inscription on the underside of the beech secondary frame. While aged and partially obscured, the script includes the word "Cabinet", likely followed by a maker’s name or a specific commission/inventory number (possibly "Cabinet Maker" or a firm such as "Cabinet [Name] & Co"). Such markings are rare on fender stools and point toward a bespoke commission from a high-end workshop of the period. This stool represents a wonderful marriage of Victorian utility and formal grandeur. Its remarkable length makes it a versatile interior piece, functioning perfectly at the foot of a bed, within a large bay window, or in its traditional place before an open fire. English Circa 1860–1880 Condition Report The stool is presented in excellent antique condition. The mahogany frame is structurally sound with no evidence of historic breaks or significant repairs to the carved feet. There are minor surface scuffs and age-related "character marks" to the timber, as expected with a functional fireside piece of this age. The velvet is in very good, clean condition with no visible tears or heavy staining. The internal stuffing remains firm and the profile of the seat is well-maintained. The underside retains a faint but authentic period ink inscription on the raw timber, adding significant historical interest. Measurement Height:              25 cm /      9.8 inch Width:               104 cm /     40.9 inch Depth:               25 cm /      9.8 inch Weight:             3.9 k.g. /     8.6 lbs