AUTHENTIC BRITISH ROORKHEE CAMPAIGN CHAIR

Marked "M & S 47", in early canvas covering with leather strap arms and fore-aft belting
England, circa late 19th to early 20th century

35 9/16" H x 20" D x 21 3/4" W; 16 3/4" H to seat

A scarce and very fun original example of the iconic Roorkhee Campaign Chair initially designed by the British Army Engineers stationed in the town of the same name in India. It has become an important member of design history, heavily replicated during the mid-20th century by Scandinavian designers (our gallery has many examples of these chairs) and is a favorite build of furniture artisans even today in rich leathers and various exotic woods.

As the predecessor to those, the present example has all of the richness and Spartan-like austerity of the original intent for the design: an incredibly light utilitarian chair that can be wrapped up quickly and included with ones luggage. It was always intended as a chair for relaxing, not for work or dining, and as such features a low seated profile and swinging back that adjusts automatically to match the profile of the sitter's lower lumbar.

This chair is marked on the arm "M & S 47". We have a very good custom leather artisan who works with our shop regularly and can certainly have the chair recovered in a saddle leather to match the original canvas - but there is a great charm and authenticity to the early military canvas.


Condition: Early and perhaps original canvas coverings with holes, pilling, loose threads and staining; still serviceable and comfortable, though we can have custom leather crafted for the chair upon request, reach out for a quote. Leather with cracking and dry-rot as expected. Early surface with significant wear and patina. A very well-preserved example that remains perfectly useful and enjoyable.

ref. 503CGF06P