A late Victorian/Edwardian passenger liner dining bench, British, circa 1900–1915, in the manner of seating supplied to Cunard, P&O and other major steamship lines. 

Long wall benches were used in dining saloons, verandah cafés, promenade lounges, and smoking rooms. Constructed from beautifully figured polished burred maple with turned legs, stretcher supports, and a distinctive rolled top rail, the bench displays the robust craftsmanship characteristic of quality marine furniture.

‘Port & Starb’d’: The back rest of the bench being designed to pivot so as to allow the passengers to sit facing the opposite direction. One setting allows the passenger to dine and then, following the meal, stewards would go along the dining room and adjust the chairs and benches to allow passengers to sit facing the lounge areas of the dining room; enjoying the view through the portholes and being able to chat & smoke with fellow passengers. Designed to withstand life at sea, this is both a practical piece of seating and a fascinating example of maritime interior design. Ideal for a hallway, dining room, yacht club, or nautical collection, it is a handsome survivor from the golden age of ocean travel.

The overall chair dimensions are featured below. The seat height is 47cm.