A Thomas 'Gnomeman' Whittaker chair. Hand carved with the signature gnome to the top of one front leg. Circa 1960, it has a particularly lovely gnome which has been carved with a smiling face. The entire chair has been adzed all over, including the front and back of the back panel. 
 
The chair is in good condition with just wear commensurate with around 60 years of regular use, some faint water stains on the oak (which would polish out), light staining to the seat, and a couple of natural splits in the grain. The padded leather seat looks great with its brass studs. The entire chair is all in original condition.
 
Thomas 'Gnomeman' Whittaker (1910 - 1991) was a craftsman based in North Yorkshire. He was heavily influenced by Robert 'Mouseman' Thompson. His designs are based on Mouseman pieces, but they tend to be a bit more rustic in their style. He was inspired to use the gnome to sign his pieces as, according to legend, a gnome is born each time an acorn germinates, and it will guard the oak tree throughout its life. Gnomeman pieces have become highly sought after since his death, some commanding higher prices than Mouseman pieces because of their rarity.