Colonial Library Chair from Beauty Leaf Tree, Queensland (1845)
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An early Colonial spade back library chair made from 'Beauty Leaf Tree' (*Calophyllum Inophyllum), Queensland origin, circa 1845, 51 cm across the arms. Calophyllum Inophyllum is a large fruit bearing plant, and a culturally important source of Tamanu oil. It is a wild native species growing in coastal areas of tropical Australia. In the 1889 book, the Useful native plants of Australia records 'During a debate on the Pearl Fisheries bill in the Queensland assembly, a clause was specially inserted to protect trees of this species, a fine of £10 is inflicted on any person who cuts down or injures the tree. This clause is, of course, in the interest of the aboriginals.' *Calophyllum Inophyllum confirmed using microscopic analysis by timber identification expert Jugo Illic.
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- Circa - A Latin term meaning 'about', often used in the antique trade to give an approximate date for the piece, usually considered to be five years on either side of the circa year. Thus, circa 1900 means the piece was made about 1900, probably between 1895 and 1905. The expression is sometimes abbreviated to c.1900.
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