Large Antique Spanish Carved Wooden Bench – Circa 1800

A wonderful large Spanish provincial bench, dating from the late 18th or early 19th century, with strong Moorish or Mudéjar influences. A wonderfully rustic and characterful piece, with a lovely warm colour and centuries of accumulated patina.

PLEASE NOTE - we have added the cushion using Ai and this is sold without a cushion.

Of substantial and rather primitive construction, with a broad panelled back, four heavy carved uprights and a thick plank seat. The decorative scalloped apron, with its repeated arched cut-outs and simple geometric carving, is particularly interesting and reflects the Moorish influence found in traditional Spanish furniture. The bench has an almost architectural quality to it, with lovely proportions and an understated simplicity.

This is a genuinely rustic piece, and certainly not for the faint-hearted. It has had a long and undoubtedly hard life, with extensive wear, knocks, irregularities and a considerable amount of historic woodworm, particularly around the feet and lower sections. The woodworm has been professionally treated, but the evidence of its past remains very apparent. It is far from pristine, but that is very much part of its appeal. A wonderfully authentic piece of old Spanish furniture, full of character and charm.

Details

• Item: Large antique Spanish carved wooden bench / settle
• Origin: Spain, possibly southern Spain
• Date: Late 18th / early 19th century, circa 1800
• Material: Solid wood, possibly walnut or another native hardwood
• Style: Spanish provincial with Mudéjar / Moorish influences
• Features: Broad panelled back, carved uprights, substantial plank seat, scalloped apron and geometric carved decoration
• Dimensions: 81 cm high × 195.5 cm long × 65 cm deep
• Seat Height: 32 cm
• Condition: A very rustic piece with extensive historic wear, knocks, scratches, irregularities and considerable old woodworm damage, particularly around the feet. The woodworm has been professionally treated. The timber has a wonderful aged colour and patina throughout. Far from pristine, but full of authentic character and charm.  We have re glued the joints and it is structurally very sturdy.
• Please look closely at the pictures showing its condition.