The Charles Gibbons Windsor Chair
More than a century after it left the Charles Gibbons workshop in High Wycombe, the maker's stamp remains exactly where it belongs.
Verified Piece Details
Private viewings are available by appointment in Cape Town.
White-glove Cape Town delivery and bespoke shipping can be arranged separately.
The Restoration
The surface was restored by hand with the aim of preserving, rather than erasing, the chair's age.
Historic steam-bent structural elements were retained and stabilised using traditional carpentry methods. The timber was then finished with hand-rubbed Tung Oil, bringing depth back to its natural honey-oak character while preserving the patina that had developed over time.
The original maker's stamps were deliberately left clear and intact.
The Provenance
The chair carries a "C. GIBBONS 1905 SA" maker's stamp beneath the seat. The 1905 date forms part of the stamp and is not treated here as a confirmed date of manufacture. The Heritage Edit restoration record places the Charles Gibbons production period at approximately 1883 to 1915.
The Record
The restoration was completed in February 2026 and documented under reference THE-GWC-0083.
The record covers the chair's maker attribution, initial condition and the treatment undertaken by The Heritage Edit.
Every intervention was intended to retain the visible evidence that gives the piece its history.
Care & Stewardship
Simple guidelines to preserve the historic character and Tung Oil finish of this piece.
01. The Timber
Dust with a soft, dry or slightly damp lint-free cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and strong household chemicals.
02. The Finish
The chair has been finished with hand-rubbed Tung Oil. Avoid silicone-based furniture sprays or aggressive polishes that may interfere with the existing finish.
03. The Environment
Keep the chair away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive heat and sustained damp conditions.