Pair of Chester armchairs. England, first half of the 20th century

Pair of Chester armchairs; England, first half of the 20th century.
Black leather.
Cracks, slight flaws and wear.
Measurements: 65 x 96 x 90 cm (x2).
Set of two Chesterfield armchairs of 19th century inspired design, with black leather capitonné upholstery and an ornamental studding on the front, following the profile of the armrests. Each of the armchairs has four flattened legs in turned wood, and the seat is formed by a removable cushion. The structure of both is characterised by the combination of straight lines with the simple curves of the arm scrolls. The classic Chesterfield sofa was born in 19th century England, and the most popular version of the story states that it was commissioned by the Earl of Chesterfield from a cabinetmaker named Adam. The Earl demanded a sofa with a low back, so that the gentlemen of high society could sit with their backs straight, and thus avoid inelegant postures. Thus, the cabinetmaker unknowingly created a sofa that would eventually become famous, becoming a classic that has endured for over a hundred years. As can be seen here, it is a seat in which the backrest and armrests are at the same height, with the latter ending at the front in the form of a scroll. In the versions that are most faithful to the original, the piece of furniture rests on low, turned feet.