Scottish Georgian Mahogany Side Chair

A fine Scottish Georgian mahogany side (or standard) chair, in the manner of Alexander Peter of Edinburgh, circa 1760.

The chair features a pierced and scrolled splat set between stop-fluted uprights, the elegant back flowing into a shaped seat rail above square legs carved with characteristic fretwork, a distinctive feature associated with Alexander Peter’s workshop. The legs are united by pierced stretchers, further enhancing the lightness and sophistication of the design.

Executed in richly figured mahogany, the chair displays excellent colour and surface, with finely judged proportions typical of high-quality Scottish furniture of the mid-18th century. The seat is upholstered in a period-style needlework panel, complementing the form without distracting from the carving.

Alexander Peter (active 1728–1772) was one of Edinburgh’s most important cabinet-makers, with notable commissions including Dumfries House, and chairs of this type are closely associated with his circle.

The chair appears structurally sound, with possible later corner glue blocks and one or two replacement brackets, consistent with careful historic maintenance and not unusual for furniture of this age.

H: 94cm (37″)W: 57cm (22.4″)D: 56cm (22″)