An unusual 1950s footstool, sourced by us in France and believed to be French, although we have been unable to identify the designer or maker.

The stool has a particularly distinctive construction. The generously proportioned rectangular seat appears almost to float above a very fine metal rod frame, which has been bent to form a series of angular legs connected at floor level. Despite the apparent lightness of the structure, the frame is extremely well made and remains completely solid.

The metalwork has developed a wonderful surface through age and use. The frame originally had a gold-coloured finish, much of which has gradually worn away to reveal the brass beneath. This has resulted in considerable variation in colour and patina across the frame. We particularly like this surface and have done nothing beyond lightly cleaning the metalwork.

When we acquired the stool, the upholstery required attention. The internal strapping and foam have been renewed and we chose to reupholster the seat in long-haired Icelandic sheepskin. We felt the softness and exaggerated texture of the sheepskin worked particularly well against the extremely fine, angular structure of the frame. The warm colour also sits beautifully with the aged brass and remnants of the original gold finish.

We have seen a great deal of furniture from this period but have not previously seen another example of this design. We have also been unable to find another identical example offered for sale or documented elsewhere. Without further information we prefer not to speculate on a designer or maker, but the quality of the frame and its unusual construction suggest that it was a carefully considered piece rather than a conventional upholstered footstool.

We sourced the stool in France and believe it to be French, dating from the 1950s. Until another example or period documentation comes to light, however, we cannot make a more definitive attribution.

For us, much of the appeal lies in the contrast between the wonderfully soft, almost oversized sheepskin seat and the delicate, heavily patinated metal structure beneath.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.