With our absolute highest compliments Bay Colony Antiques takes the utmost pleasure in offering this wonderful antique hall tree. This example was produced at the height of the Victorian design movement towards the later part of the 19th century for the grand interior of a prominent household. The entire hall tree is constructed from a premium grade of quartersawn tiger oak lumber with boldly figured grain and finished in a beautiful color which balances brilliant golden oak tones with slightly darker and warmer undertones. After many years the entire hall tree has developed a lovely patina as the piece has naturally oxidized and the surface has taken on a depth of color which only time can create. In a room with even a minimal amount of natural sunlight the entire piece takes on a vibrant and striking quality as the light helps to make the full depth of color readily visible. This hall tree will command any space it occupies with its larger stature and overall form from the top of the rounded protruding crest right down to the finely carved lion paw feet.
The center of the hall tree features a magnificent finely beveled glass mirror which is original to the piece. There are four cast iron coat hooks mounted to either side of the mirror which are styled in an elaborate Victorian era form. The main elements consist of cornucopia inspired forms with a lower floral element and dramatic protruding curved elements. It is quite common for these coat hooks to be replaced as cast iron can be broken if the piece is not properly transported. Those who have had to replace these high style ornamental hooks are well aware at just how valuable they are and how scarce they can be to find. The center of the hall tree features a lift open bench seat that has the capacity to store clothing or other household items. These grand hall trees are typically placed close to entryway areas so that the owner may sit down on the bench seat to remove or put on their shoes before entering or leaving the home. This example is one of the absolute finest of its kind with a spectacular and rare form and beautiful elements throughout. We are immensely proud to offer this incredible antique and we sincerely hope to find a deserving home for it where it will be cherished for many years to come. The hall tree measures 44" wide x 16 1/2" deep x 78" tall with an 18" seat height.
