Mission-Style Oak Side Chair
Seating (Dining or Occasional) · Mission/Arts and Crafts (circa 1900-1920) · Westernstoneware Company (marked on jug, but chair is likely a Midwestern regional manufacturer like Murphy or Phoenix Chair Co.)
Type
Seating (Dining or Occasional)
Style Period
Mission/Arts and Crafts (circa 1900-1920)
Material
Solid Quartersawn Oak, Plywood seat base, Vinyl or Faux Leather upholstery, Steel upholstery tacks
Age Estimate
Circa 1910-1925
Dimensions
Height: 36-38 inches; Width: 18 inches; Depth: 17 inches; Seat Height: 18 inches. Standard scale for the period
Origin
Midwestern United States; Monmouth, Illinois region suggested by proximity to stoneware origin
Designer/Maker
Westernstoneware Company (marked on jug, but chair is likely a Midwestern regional manufacturer like Murphy or Phoenix Chair Co.)
Value Estimate
$75 - $125 (Retail value per chair as indicated by the seller's $100 tag)
Description
A classic Arts and Crafts era side chair featuring a high, slightly arched crest rail and a broad flat splat. The design emphasizes the honesty of the materials and the strength of the oak.
Key Features
Flat vertical back splat, tapered rear legs, quartersawn oak grain, and period-appropriate straight-line silhouette
Color & Finish
Medium to dark brown 'Fumed' or stained oak finish under a worn shellac or lacquer topcoat
Construction Method
Factory-built mass production featuring straight-line geometry and utilitarian design characteristic of the early 20th century
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Mortise and tenon joints on the back splat and frame; machine-cut factory precision with moderate hand-finishing
Wood Grain & Species
Quartersawn White Oak with prominent medullary rays (tiger stripe) visible on the stiles and top rail
Surface Treatment
Sanded and stained with a clear protective topcoat that shows age-related crazing and wear
Upholstery Details
Gold/Mustard colored faux leather (vinyl) or coated fabric over a thin padding; likely a mid-century replacement of original leather
Hardware & Fittings
Internal structural screws and hidden staples for upholstery; no visible exterior hardware
Origin & Provenance
Midwestern United States; Monmouth, Illinois region suggested by proximity to stoneware origin
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Upholstery is cracked and showing age; wood finish has significant wear and thinning on the edges (patina); structural joints appear stable.
Interesting Facts
Mission furniture was a reaction against the ornate Victorian styles, focusing on simple lines and American-grown oak.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of sturdy, well-designed furniture during the American Industrial Revolution and the rise of the middle class.
Similar Pieces
Stickley Side Chairs (more refined joinery/pegs) and Sears-Roebuck Catalog Chairs (lighter weight construction)
Care & Maintenance
Clean with damp cloth; use high-quality furniture wax like Briwax to protect dry wood; keep away from direct sunlight to prevent further finish degradation.
Value Estimate
$75 - $125 (Retail value per chair as indicated by the seller's $100 tag)
Sustainability Notes
Highly sustainable as an antique; solid oak construction offers a lifespan of over a century compared to modern disposable furniture.