Hi Anthony,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Such tall chairs - with that unusual geometric element in the crests - are often found in fraternal halls, such as ones belonging to the Freemasons, or Odd Fellows. They would have been used both ceremonially and for more regular meetings, identifying high-ranking members of the organization. While they do appear to be like "thrones", the more appropriate term is "hall chairs" to refer to a civic or private hall in which they were placed rather than the hallway of a house, which would not be grand or large enough for such large chairs.

The stately nature of these chairs - in many ways - recommends them for an institutional collection rather than a private collection; that may deter some potential buyers but if these were to come to auction, the pair would do quite well with an estimate of $1,000-1,500.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A pair of antique Victorian style carved oak and leather upholstered tall chairs
probably mid-late 19th Century
Each with molded arched crest centered by an applied geometric elements, the tall back inset with black horse-hair upholstered panel over shaped arms flanking a rounded sprung seat, on square-section legs. Presumably not marked or labeled.
Overall height: 78 inches; width across crown: 32 inches; seat height 20 inches
CONDITION: These chairs appear to be in good condition.
PROVENANCE: Acquired at a garage or yard sale
$1,000-1,500 for the pair*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia