The Ashby is a full-height bow-back Windsor: a steam-bent bow, flat shaped spindles fanning from the seat, and turned legs joined by an H-stretcher. With no upholstery to wear or stain, it is one of the lowest-maintenance chairs you can put in a busy room. It wipes clean, hides scuffs under a dark stain, and can be touched up rather than reupholstered.
Construction. Solid hardwood throughout. The bow and spindles are socketed into a shaped solid seat, and the legs are wedged into the seat from below, a traditional joint that tightens under load rather than loosening. The H-stretcher ties all four legs together against the side-to-side racking that kills cheaper chairs.
Where it works. Pubs, taverns, gastropubs, barbecue and Southern restaurants, and traditional hotel dining rooms. The tall back gives a strong silhouette in a long run of tables.
Options. Walnut, espresso, black or natural stain; optional tie-on or screw-on seat pad in vinyl or fabric; nylon or felt glides. A painted finish is possible for heritage interiors; ask for a finish sample before production.
