A lovely set of four of Thomas ‘Gnomeman’ Whittaker solid oak dining chairs, in good original unrestored condition ready for immediate use. Made in his distinctive rustic artisan style they stand on four square carved legs, joined by stretchers. The legs and back panels feature pegged joints and adzing to all visible surfaces with his trademark gnome carved prominently to the front left leg of each chair. The seats retain their original thick aniline leather hide, webbed to the underside and fastened to the frame with copper studs. The leather is in good useable overall condition, the rear of one with more creasing than the others and just the expected marking and staining from everyday use always found on this type of older untreated analine leather. All the chair frames are strong and completely solid with no joint movement with some minor spill staining, more evident on one of the chair legs. The wooden frames now present in a warm aged medium oak colour.

Thomas Whittaker (1910 -1991) lived and worked in Littlebeck, near Whitby, North Yorkshire. His trademark gnome is carved onto all his work and was inspired by the legend that a gnome is born each time an acorn germinates and will guard that tree throughout its life. His work is now nearly as well known as Robert Thompson’s. His business ceased on his death and his former home and workshop is now a private residence. For those interested in learning more about his life and work i attach a link to a British Pathe newsreel from 1961. Gnomeman Thomas Whittaker

Size: 40.5(w) x 43(d) x 82.5 / 87.5(h)cm

£ 595 Set of 4 previously £ 695

Stock ref: DS3094

David Siddall Antiques has earned  an enviable reputation in the UK and  internationally as a specialist dealer in the vintage works of Thomas ‘Gnomeman’ Whittaker If you would like to see other items specifically from this maker, either current or previously sold stock, please click HERE