The technique of Turkey work consists of colored woolen threads knotted onto a hemp foundation and then cut to produce an even pile. It first emerged in the mid-16th century and seems to have continued until the early 18th century, and although originally believed to be a form of needlework, more recent research has shown that it was produced on a loom in a similar tecnique to the English carpets being produced in imitation of genuine Turkish carpets being imported during this period. It is possible that a single professional weaving center was producing both chair covers and carpets using this distinctive technique (see Margaret Swain, 'The Turkey-Work Chairs of Holyroodhouse", E.S. Cooke ed., Upholstery in America and Europe from the Seventeenth Century to World War I, New York, 1987, pp.51-4). Similar chairs with Turkey work upholstery are illustrated in V. Chinnery, Oak Furniture, The British Tradition, Woodbridge, 1979, p. 131, figs.2.136 and 2.137, and Margaret Swain, op. cit. pp. 53-4, figs. 29-31. The upholstered chairs offered here, although probably of a later date than true Turkey work, nevertheless share certain technical characteristics, notably the hemp foundation.