Made in Australian native timber in late 19th Century Aesthetic style, the two carvers with stylized floral carving to the top rail and featuring a central floral medallion depicting native flora over caned seats, the six side chairs with simpler detail and drop in rush seats.

Norton and Reed were cabinetmakers in Sydney from 1892-1896. They manufactured from 185 Pit Street in 1893. This set of chairs is the first known existing example of their work.

Black bean is an Australian hardwood species from the rainforests of northern NSW and QLD. It is dense, hard and much sought as a cabinetmaking timber around the turn of the 19th Century. The enduring original condition of the chairs is testament to its quality.