Wicker Tub Chair (Rattan Basket Chair, Woven Lounge Chair)
Seating (Lounge Chair) · Bohemian / Tropical / Late 20th Century (Circa 1970s-1990s) · Unmarked, mass-produced or artisan-imported piece typical of tropical home decor lines from retailers like Pier 1 Imports or similar global importers.
Type
Seating (Lounge Chair)
Style Period
Bohemian / Tropical / Late 20th Century (Circa 1970s-1990s)
Material
Natural rattan core, woven wicker, and cane, supported by an internal steam-bent rattan pole framework.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970s-1990s, based on the prevalent use of heavy woven wicker styles in sunroom and bohemian interior designs of that era.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 32 inches, width: 30 inches, depth: 30 inches. Typical proportions for a comfortable, deep-seated accent or lounge chair.
Origin
Likely manufactured in Southeast Asia (such as the Philippines, Indonesia, or China), regions renowned for rattan harvesting and weaving traditions.
Designer/Maker
Unmarked, mass-produced or artisan-imported piece typical of tropical home decor lines from retailers like Pier 1 Imports or similar global importers.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value between $40 to $150 depending on local secondhand market demand and vintage provenance.
Description
This inviting wicker tub chair features a rounded, enveloping profile with integrated arms and a continuous chevron weave pattern across the back and seat. The honey-colored natural rattan construction offers a warm, organic aesthetic that transitions easily between sunrooms, bohemian living spaces, and coastal interiors. Its low-slung, sturdy silhouette provides a comfortable and tactile seating experience.
Key Features
Enveloping tub chair silhouette, continuous chevron herringbone weave pattern, thick steam-bent rattan framing, and integrated curved armrests.
Color & Finish
Golden honey-brown natural rattan tones with a clear protective varnish or lacquer finish, exhibiting a warm patina.
Construction Method
Hand-woven over a steam-bent rattan pole skeleton, combining traditional basketry techniques with structural framing. Artisan-made with continuous weave patterns.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Traditional bentwood joinery with integral weaving. Rattan poles are mortised or lashed together, wrapped tightly with woven wicker strands.
Wood Grain & Species
Calamus rotang (rattan palm) displaying a fibrous, linear longitudinal grain on the structural poles and a tight herringbone or chevron weave pattern across the surfaces.
Surface Treatment
Clear protective gloss or semi-gloss lacquer sealing the natural fibers against moisture and wear, preserving the organic texture.
Upholstery Details
Non-upholstered direct woven shell design, though often paired with a loose seat cushion for added comfort.
Hardware & Fittings
No visible metal hardware; structural joints are lashed with fine rattan binding or glued and pinned invisibly.
Origin & Provenance
Likely manufactured in Southeast Asia (such as the Philippines, Indonesia, or China), regions renowned for rattan harvesting and weaving traditions.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Minor surface wear and dust within the tight weave crevices, typical of vintage wicker. Structural integrity appears sound with no major breaks or unravelling in the primary weave.
Interesting Facts
Rattan is one of the world's fastest-growing materials, making woven wicker furniture an early precursor to modern sustainable design movements. Unlike bamboo, which is hollow, rattan is solid, making it remarkably strong and flexible when steamed.
Cultural Significance
Wicker and rattan furniture gained massive popularity in Victorian times due to trade with Asia, and experienced major revivals during the Arts and Crafts movement, Tiki craze of the mid-20th century, and the bohemian revival of the 1970s.
Similar Pieces
Papasan chairs, Peacock chairs, and Manila armchairs. Distinguished from a Papasan by its structured, enclosed tub form rather than a bowl resting on a separate base.
Care & Maintenance
Dust regularly using a soft brush attachment or compressed air. Clean with a damp cloth and mild soap solution, ensuring the natural fibers are not overly saturated. Avoid prolonged direct sunlight to prevent drying and cracking.
Value Estimate
Estimated market value between $40 to $150 depending on local secondhand market demand and vintage provenance.
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable material as rattan grows rapidly in tropical rainforests without the need for deforestation, supporting local indigenous harvesting economies.