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1 of 253523 objects
Bhai Ram Singh
Chair c.1892
Wood, leather, brass | 110.8 x 43.6 x 52.5 cm (whole object) | RCIN 42047
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Carved wooden chair, the top rail depicting birds, possibly fantail pigeons, which are native to India and Pakistan, the back frame carved with large flowers around an upholstered section, covered like the seat in embossed leather; the front frame with a foliate scrolling design with two fish or dragons with open mouths and protruding tongues, facing one another. Turned front legs resting on brass peg feet.
One of a set of 36 chairs designed by Bhai Ram Singh and John Lockwood Kipling for the Durbar Room at Osborne House. The pair had supplied similar chairs, also of European form but with Indian motifs, for the Duke and Duchess of Connaught Bagshot Park in 1889 (see V&A IS.3-2016). They were of 'Indian design adapted to European comforts'.
This suite was made in England, possibly in London, where Bhai Ram Singh was working with George Jackson & Co. A sideboard with matching designs was produced in India, and a further chair for Queen Victoria's own use manufactured at Ryde.
The Osborne suite was dispersed after Queen Victoria's death, probably in 1916; in 2007 four of the original chairs were acquired by English Heritage, bringing the total number on display at Osborne to nine.
Provenance
Commisioned by Queen Victoria for the Durbar Room at Osborne House
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Creator(s)
(designer)(furniture maker)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Wood, leather, brass
Measurements
110.8 x 43.6 x 52.5 cm (whole object)
Place of Production
London [Greater London]
