Lot Essay
The 7th Earl records in his 'collected Traditions of the Mansion & Estate' of 1855 that these stools 'were carved by Richard Penn Esqre for the 6th Earl of Shaftsberry'. Richard Penn (1784-1863), great-grandson of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, was employed at the Colonial Office. Penn was also an author, writing on varied subjects as ciphering, angling, shooting and chess.
Two pairs of stools part of the original St. Giles House set were sold anonymously, Christie's London, 26 April 2007, lots 334 and 335 (£9,600 & £10,200 respectively, including premium); two further pairs were sold anonymously, Christie's, London, 13 September 2007, lots 1177 & 1178 (£18,500 & £20,900 respectively, including premium).
Two pairs of stools part of the original St. Giles House set were sold anonymously, Christie's London, 26 April 2007, lots 334 and 335 (£9,600 & £10,200 respectively, including premium); two further pairs were sold anonymously, Christie's, London, 13 September 2007, lots 1177 & 1178 (£18,500 & £20,900 respectively, including premium).