early 20th century, constructed in the style of an earlier example formed of wood taken from Lord Nelson's ship [HMS Victory] when repairing her, and given to John, 2nd Earl of Chatham, when First Lord of the Admiralty, crest with figurehead of [HMS Victory,] 9-7/8 in. carved cannons atop each arm, anchors carved at sides between arms and legs with sinuous sea creature on fronts, other carved details include cattails, acorns among oak leaves, scrolls, drapery and ribbing all carved in deep relief along with “Victory” across facing side of backs and “Trafalgar” across front skirts, original caned seats, continuous stiles form slightly curved rear legs, turned front legs, brass casters, sturdy construction with original varnished surface, mellow brown color, 41 in., each with shaped striped-velvet cushion; accompanied by a photocopy of exhibition catalog reputedly referencing one of these chairs. Condition: very good original condition, minor flaws at joints and laminations. Notes: [HMS Victory] was a 104-gun first-rate ship of the line of the Royal navy, ordered in 1758, laid down in 1759 and launched in 1765. She is best known as Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. She was also Keppel's flagship at Ushant, Howe's flagship at Cape Spartel and Jervis's flagship at Cape St. Vincent. After 1824 she served as a harbor ship. In 1922 she was moved to a dry dock at Portsmouth, England, and preserved as a museum ship. She has been the flagship of the First Sea Lord since October 2012 and is the world's oldest naval ship still in commission.. Provenance: M. S. Rau, 2006; Private Collection

very good original condition, minor flaws at joints and laminations