PAIR OF LATE 19TH CENTURY FRENCH IRON BRANCH-WORK GARDEN BENCHES

An exceptional pair of late 19th Century French garden benches.

With naturalistic cast iron branch-form supports and beautifully shaped timber seats and backs. Displaying the romantic rustic aesthetic popular in French château and estate gardens during the late 19th century, the cast iron frames are modelled as intertwined branches and roots, supporting substantial timber planks of unusual organic form. The shaped backs and seats possess a wonderful sculptural quality, their irregular contours and weathered surfaces lending the benches tremendous character and presence. Richly patinated throughout, the benches retain the charm and authenticity acquired through decades of outdoor use. 

Evidence of historic restorations and sympathetic repairs can be seen, contributing to their unique appearance and long history rather than detracting from it. The cast iron has been recently treated with a rust inhibitor to help preserve the surface while maintaining its aged character.

Rare to find as a true pair, these benches would make an outstanding addition to a garden, orangery, conservatory or country house interior.