Victorian Pair of Snooker Benches, c.1880

Our Stock # LFA-1196

This is an antique Victorian pair of four seater snooker benches, c.1880.

Solidly jointed, the beautifully patinated mahogany frames of these benches are strong and sturdy featuring pierced splats, ring turned legs and scroll arms. In antique form they are ripe for restoration.åÊ

Each bench features the original makers plate inscribed 'Thomas Lobb, Maker, 48 Rivington Place, Curtain Rd., London.'. The 1891 Census lists Thomas, 37, as 'Chair and Couch Maker' and it would appear one of his daughters, Ada (14) may have joined the business as an upholsterer.

During the Victorian period, following the opening of the Regents Canal earlier in the century, Shoreditch became the centre of London furniture manufacture; just far enough out of the city to keep the rents down but close enough to trade. By 1860 approximately one third of all furniture makers worked in the East End.

With a burgeoning population came the demand for a greater quantity and variety of furniture, Curtain Road, Old Street and Great Eastern Street formed a hub for specialist trades. Makers like Thomas Lobb, could produce finished items but many items were assembled in multiple premisis as tradesmen specialised in different facets of the industry: frames, upholstery, drawers etc.

A fabulous pair of benches, solid of joint, raw and ready for polishing and re-upholstery. Strong enough for a commercial placement or would make a fine addition to any entrance hall, portico, gentleman's room, reception area, or billiards room.

Dimensions:
Max Width: 184cm (72.5'')
Max Depth: 57cm (22.5'')
Max Height: 96cm (37.75'')åÊ

Seat Width: 170cm (67'')
Seat Depth: 43cm (17'')
Seat Height: 46cm (18'')

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