William IV carved mahogany hall bench, by eminent Liverpool cabinetmakers Blain

Circa 1840. Exceptional William IV carved mahogany hall bench, made by eminent Liverpool cabinetmakers Blain (stamped twice on back). The top rail with scrolled sides on three shaped foliate supports and a central circular plaque bearing a coat of arms of a hand holding a mace. The rectangular seat with moulded fore-edges supported on fluted cabriole legs with foliate quarter brackets and scrolled toes.
162cm Wide, 97cm Tall, 43cm Deep

Arthur Blain established his cabinet making business in the William IV period at 35 Paradise Street, Liverpool. The earliest examples such as this exceptional bench are stamped with just A Blain Liverpool’ while later Victorian pieces carry the ‘A Blain & Sons’ . Arthur Blain died in 1868 when the business was continued by Arthur’s son William Hughes Blain who died in 1909. Their works were recorded in The Dictionary of English Furniture Makers, 1660-1840. Pieces by Blain are noted for the quality of the mahogany and walnut timbers used and exceptional hand craftsmanship and designs.