His elaborate furniture, much of which was painted, formed part of his colourful decorative interior design schemes and was based on the study of medieval precedents. This settle was designed for Burges's own use, rather than a commission and represents an early example of his desire to furnish his home with medieval-inspired furniture. The gallery houses the most significant grouping of furniture designed by Burges for his own use and this piece will also complement furniture by other exponents of the Gothic Revival like Pugin and Waterhouse already in the collection.

Provenance

By descent to RP Pullan, BurgesÂ’ brother-in-law; Col TH Minshall; Col ERB Graham from 1934; John Betjeman, 1961-2; Evelyn Waugh; Waugh family by descent; through Blairman and Sons.