La-Z-Boy Recliner
Seating (Reclining armchair) · Late 20th Century Traditional (Circa 1970s-1990s) · La-Z-Boy (indicated by the distinct branded logo medallion on the side wooden recliner handle).
Type
Seating (Reclining armchair)
Style Period
Late 20th Century Traditional (Circa 1970s-1990s)
Material
Fabric upholstery (textured chenille or corduroy-like synthetic blend), internal hardwood and engineered wood frame, steel reclining mechanism, high-density polyurethane foam padding, and a wooden operating handle.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured between 1980 and 2000, based on the upholstery texture, color palette, and the specific style of the wooden handle medallion.
Dimensions
Estimated height 40 inches, width 36 inches, depth 38 inches in the upright position. This is a standard scale for a large-format traditional comfort recliner.
Origin
United States (Monroe, Michigan - headquarters of La-Z-Boy Incorporated).
Designer/Maker
La-Z-Boy (indicated by the distinct branded logo medallion on the side wooden recliner handle).
Value Estimate
General secondary market value ranges from $50 to $150 USD depending on local demand and exact condition, as used traditional recliners are widely available.
Description
A classic, supremely comfortable La-Z-Boy reclining armchair upholstered in a soft, textured dusty rose fabric. The chair features a high, supportive bustle-back design, generously padded roll arms, and a signature wooden side handle used to operate the built-in footrest and reclining mechanism. Designed entirely around ergonomics and relaxation, this iconic American seating staple represents decades of comfort-focused domestic furniture manufacturing.
Key Features
High bustle-back cushioning, plush roll arms, side-mounted wooden reclining handle with a branded circular medallion, and integrated mechanical footrest.
Color & Finish
Medium dusty rose or muted mauve upholstery. The exposed side operating handle features a clear-coated natural wood finish.
Construction Method
Mass-produced factory assembly combining a heavy-duty steel mechanical reclining mechanism, kiln-dried wood framing, and stapled/glued upholstery over padded foam components.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Industrial factory joinery utilizing heavy-duty steel bolts, metal-to-metal fasteners, corner blocks, and staple-secured upholstery over an internal wooden frame.
Wood Grain & Species
The side control lever is fashioned from standard turned hardwood with a straight, subtle grain pattern, likely maple or birch.
Surface Treatment
Fabric is untreated soft woven textile; the wooden side handle features a smooth semi-gloss protective varnish.
Upholstery Details
Textured woven synthetic upholstery fabric in a solid dusty rose tone. The chair features deep fiber-filled plush cushioning, high bustle-back style backrest, and padded roll arms.
Hardware & Fittings
Prominent side-mounted wooden handle/lever bearing the branded circular La-Z-Boy medallion for activating the footrest and reclining action.
Origin & Provenance
United States (Monroe, Michigan - headquarters of La-Z-Boy Incorporated).
Condition Notes
Appears to be in good, well-maintained vintage or second-hand condition with normal signs of gentle domestic use. The upholstery shows standard soft texturing without major tears or visible stains, and the frame remains structurally sound.
Interesting Facts
La-Z-Boy was invented in 1927 by cousins Edward M. Knabusch and Edwin J. Shoemaker in Monroe, Michigan. They originally built the first recliner out of wooden slats and porch chair parts before patenting the iconic chair in 1931.
Cultural Significance
The La-Z-Boy recliner is an enduring pop culture icon of American domestic comfort, frequently associated with leisure, television watching, and family living rooms throughout the late 20th century.
Similar Pieces
Push-back recliners, power lift chairs, and traditional upholstered club chairs. Easily distinguished from competitors by the trademarked wooden handle and mechanical reclining action.
Care & Maintenance
Vacuum fabric regularly using an upholstery attachment to remove dust. Spot clean with a mild water-based cleaning agent or specialized fabric cleaner. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fabric fading.
Value Estimate
General secondary market value ranges from $50 to $150 USD depending on local demand and exact condition, as used traditional recliners are widely available.
Sustainability Notes
Built for exceptional durability and longevity, which reduces the need for frequent replacement. Many older frames can be reupholstered, extending their functional lifecycle significantly.