We are delighted to offer this rare Early Ercol 338 Cowhorn Chair for sale, an iconic Ercol model dating from the early 1950s. Designed by Lucian Ercolani, this beautiful fireside chair remains one of Ercol’s most recognisable and collectible designs.
Professionally restored by Artabelle Furniture, this exceptional example has been carefully refinished to enhance the natural beauty of the elm and beech while preserving the character, craftsmanship and originality that make early Ercol pieces so desirable.
Price: £250
If you are interested in purchasing this chair, please contact us at isabelle@artabellefurniture.co.uk.
An iconic Ercol design for collectors
The Ercol 338 Cowhorn Chair is highly sought after by collectors for its elegant proportions and distinctive sculptural details. This early example features many of the characteristics enthusiasts look for, including a thick, scalloped solid elm seat, beautifully shaped arm supports and carefully crafted back spindles.
The steam-bent beech backrest gives the chair its famous “Cowhorn” name. Later versions were produced with straighter spindles and less sculpted seats, making these earlier chairs particularly desirable among Ercol collectors.
Traditionally restored to preserve its original character
This chair has been professionally refinished using traditional Danish oil and wax, enhancing the rich natural grain of the elm and beech while remaining faithful to the original design.
It retains its original blue Ercol paper label, along with the original cushion fasteners beneath the seat — details that are increasingly difficult to find on examples from this period. These features help confirm the chair’s authenticity and add to its appeal as a genuine early Ercol piece.
Condition report
The chair is in excellent structural condition, with a solid and sturdy frame free from movement or repairs. It displays only the light, honest signs of age expected from a genuine 1950s piece.
The beautifully restored finish highlights the natural grain of the timber, giving the chair a warm and timeless appearance while celebrating the character that only vintage furniture can offer.
A perfect mid-century reading corner chair
Whether placed beside a fireplace, in a cosy reading corner or used as an occasional armchair, the Early Ercol 338 Cowhorn Chair sits effortlessly within Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian and contemporary interiors.
Combining comfort, elegant design and exceptional British craftsmanship, this restored Ercol chair represents a wonderful opportunity to own one of Lucian Ercolani’s most iconic and collectible designs.
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