Before chairs became more affordable, joint stools, such as this one with arcading motifs, were used for seating in English households. These stools were called joint stools because they were typically constructed using mortise and tenon joints. Additionally, the legs and seat were reinforced with round dowels, which are visible, adding to the charm of the stool. The apron beneath the seat is embellished with demi-lune arcading filled with radials, but the most prominent carvings are the turned legs connected by a box stretcher. In today’s houses, our 17th-century English joint stool would make a wonderfully versatile accessory. While it can still be used for seating, such as fireside or in an entry hall, the small footprint allows it to be used as a small side table, an indoor plant stand, or a pedestal for a sculpture.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Minor nicks and losses. Very light age separations.