23/06/2026
Pair of Vintage Irish Mahogany-Stained Chairs – Red Velvet (Convent Provenance)
Description
For sale is a beautiful, matching pair of vintage Irish upholstered side chairs, dating from the early-to-mid 20th century.
These chairs feature a wonderful piece of history, having originally sourced from an Irish convent. Built for elegance and durability, they feature a classic pierced vase-shaped back splat (Hepplewhite/Sheraton style) and a refined, understated circular medallion on the top rail.
The frames are solid hardwood with a rich mahogany-toned finish, complemented by vibrant, clean red velvet upholstered seats. Both chairs are in excellent, sturdy condition with very little wear, making them completely ready to use.
Thanks to their symmetry, they are perfect as a matching pair to flank a hallway console table, a fireplace, or to use as unique desk/accent chairs.
Dimensions
1000mmx 450mm with seat height 500mm
Pricing & Delivery
Price: £90 each OR £150 for the pair (Highly recommend buying the pair!)
Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Sturdy frames and clean upholstery.
Location/Collection: Were located in Cullyhanna South Armagh were open Monday to Saturday 9am-5.30pm
1. The Design Choice (The Medallion)
The simple circular medallion on the top rail is very common in furniture made for religious orders or institutions. In a convent setting, these chairs were often used in parlors (where nuns would receive guests), libraries, or dining halls. The restrained, unadorned circular detail offered a clean, dignified look without being overly "flashy" or boastful—fitting the modest, utilitarian aesthetic expected in a convent.
2. Standardized Institutional Making
Convents often ordered chairs in large sets from Irish furniture manufacturers (such as makers based in Dublin, Cork, or Belfast) who specialized in institutional contracts. The straight, stout front legs and robust frame were intentional: they were built for durability and heavy daily use over decades.
3. Timeline Alignment
Given that it was sourced from a convent, this strongly reinforces a date of circa 1900 to 1940. During this era, many Irish religious institutions underwent expansions or refurbishments and bought sturdy, classical-looking revival furniture.
The vibrant red velvet seat also fits perfectly; red, green, or blue velvets and wool-mohairs were the absolute standard for institutional upholstery, providing a pop of color against dark wood while being incredibly long-lasting.
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