THE STORY BEHIND

Barrel-back armchair

WHAT IS IT? A mahogany barrel-back wing armchair made around 1870 in the George III style.

SO IT’S AN ANTIQUE: Yes, but it has been restored by London based antiques dealer and designer, Christopher Howe.

THAT EXPLAINS IT: He bought the chair at a country house auction and has refurbished it in 18th century silk velvet and hand-dyed antique linen, giving it an authentic worn-in look.

WHAT ABOUT THE ZIGZAG ON THE BACK? That’s a Jacquard woven fabric repurposed from a Thirties Lusty Lloyd Loom chair.

HOW MUCH IS IT? It’s up for auction at Christie’s, 8 King Street, London SW1 on January 31 with an estimate between £1,500 and £2,500.