Mission Style Settee / Double Morris Chair
Seating (Settee, Bench) · Arts and Crafts / Mission Revival (circa 1900-1920) · In the style of Gustav Stickley / L. & J.G. Stickley; maker's mark not visible in image.
Type
Seating (Settee, Bench)
Style Period
Arts and Crafts / Mission Revival (circa 1900-1920)
Material
Quartersawn white oak primary wood, heavy black leatherette or genuine leather upholstery, brass nailhead trim.
Age Estimate
Circa 1905-1925, based on style, quartersawn oak utilization, and construction details.
Dimensions
Estimated dimensions: Height 36 inches, Width 48 inches, Depth 32 inches. Typical for a two-seat settle designed for comfort and sturdy utility.
Origin
American origin, likely Midwest or East Coast manufacturing during the height of the Arts and Crafts movement.
Designer/Maker
In the style of Gustav Stickley / L. & J.G. Stickley; maker's mark not visible in image.
Value Estimate
Retail / Auction value ranging from $1,200 to $3,500 depending on definitive maker's marks, exact provenance, and condition.
Description
A sturdy and handsome Mission style settee featuring a substantial quartersawn white oak frame with vertical slat sides, broad flat armrests with exposed pegged joinery, and two separate upholstered backrests. The black leatherette upholstery is neatly secured with brass nailhead trim, offering a striking contrast against the warm, figured wood grain. Designed with functional simplicity and robust durability, it embodies the core philosophies of the American Arts and Crafts movement.
Key Features
Quartersawn white oak with visible flake grain, exposed pegged mortise-and-tenon joints on the arms, dual upholstered backrests with brass nailheads, and strong vertical slat supports.
Color & Finish
Medium-dark mission oak stain with a satin varnish or lacquer finish, accentuating the natural grain and medullary rays of the quartersawn oak.
Construction Method
Handcrafted and machine-assisted joinery typical of early 20th-century American furniture factories, featuring mortise-and-tenon construction with exposed pegged tenons.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Mortise and tenon joinery with visible pegged tenons on the arms, demonstrating solid structural integrity and hallmark Arts and Crafts transparency of construction.
Wood Grain & Species
Quartersawn white oak featuring prominent medullary rays (tiger ray figure or flake), characteristic of high-quality Mission furniture.
Surface Treatment
Satin varnish finish with minor edge wear consistent with age and use; visible wood grain texture preserved.
Upholstery Details
Black faux leather or Spanish leather upholstery, generously padded, accented with individual brass nailheads along the perimeter of the dual backrests.
Hardware & Fittings
Decorative brass upholstery tacks (nailheads); exposed square wooden pegs (durchsteckzapfen style) at the arm joints.
Origin & Provenance
American origin, likely Midwest or East Coast manufacturing during the height of the Arts and Crafts movement.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. The wooden frame is structurally sound with minor surface scuffs on the left armrest. Upholstery is taut and clean with no visible tears.
Interesting Facts
The Arts and Crafts movement arose as a reaction against the excessive ornamentation of Victorian mass production, emphasizing handcrafted quality, utility, and honest construction.
Cultural Significance
Represented a philosophical shift toward simplicity, natural materials, and the elevation of the furniture maker to an artisan, heavily influencing modern minimalist design.
Similar Pieces
Stickley settle, Roycroft double chair, Gustav Stickley Morris chair. Distinguished by specific joinery marks, wood selection, and subtle proportion differences.
Care & Maintenance
Dust regularly with a soft cloth. Apply a quality paste wax occasionally to nourish the oak finish. Keep away from direct sunlight and extreme humidity changes. Clean leather/leatherette with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed.
Value Estimate
Retail / Auction value ranging from $1,200 to $3,500 depending on definitive maker's marks, exact provenance, and condition.
Sustainability Notes
Built from durable solid hardwood designed to last for generations, exemplifying sustainable anti-disposable furniture practices inherent to antique and vintage collecting.