Sheraton Style Open Armchair, also known as a Fancy Chair or Library Armchair
Seating (Armchair, Occasional Chair) · Federal / Neoclassical Revival (Late 19th to early 20th century revival of 1790-1820 Sheraton style) · Unmarked commercial furniture manufacturer, likely American or English revival maker from the early 20th century inspired by Thomas Sheraton designs.
Type
Seating (Armchair, Occasional Chair)
Style Period
Federal / Neoclassical Revival (Late 19th to early 20th century revival of 1790-1820 Sheraton style)
Material
Hardwood frame, primarily mahogany or birch with a dark mahogany stain, upholstered drop-in seat pad with fabric cover
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1930, based on the revival styling, machine-assisted turning, and modern upholstery techniques combined with traditional forms.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 35-38 inches; width: 22-25 inches; depth: 21-23 inches. Standard proportions for a traditional parlor or library armchair.
Origin
Likely American or British, produced during the late Victorian or Colonial Revival period.
Designer/Maker
Unmarked commercial furniture manufacturer, likely American or English revival maker from the early 20th century inspired by Thomas Sheraton designs.
Value Estimate
Retail/Antiques market value range: $150 - $350, depending on local demand, historical provenance, and exact condition.
Description
An elegant revival armchair featuring a distinctive tablet crest rail, out-scrolled arms terminating in carved volutes, and reeded stiles. The front legs are intricately turned with ring and spool details, connected by a decorative H-stretcher base for enhanced structural stability. The upholstered drop-in seat provides comfortable seating, making it an ideal accent piece for a traditional study, library, or living room.
Key Features
Tablet-top crest rail, scrolled open arms, ring-turned front legs, decorative H-stretcher base, and reeded framing details.
Color & Finish
Deep reddish-brown mahogany stain with a satin varnish or lacquer finish, highlighting the turned and carved wooden elements with subtle highlights on the edges.
Construction Method
Combination of machine-made precision components and traditional joinery, typical of late Victorian or Edwardian revival furniture manufacturing
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Mortise and tenon joinery for the frame and stretcher base, with visible turned wood components and hand-shaped armrests. Good quality commercial craftsmanship of its period.
Wood Grain & Species
Straight-grained hardwood, likely birch or gumwood stained to simulate mahogany, with some subtle figuring visible on the crest rail and arm terminals.
Surface Treatment
Smooth satin finish applied over stained wood, featuring turned spindle legs and reeded details on the crest and arms.
Upholstery Details
Drop-in upholstered cushion covered in a woven patterned fabric featuring muted green and beige vertical stripes with a damask-style floral motif. Foam padding with welted edges.
Hardware & Fittings
No visible metal hardware or fittings; traditional wood joinery construction with internal corner blocks.
Origin & Provenance
Likely American or British, produced during the late Victorian or Colonial Revival period.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. The wooden frame is sturdy with minor surface scuffs and wear consistent with age and light use. The upholstery shows minor fading and light staining, but remains intact and serviceable.
Interesting Facts
Thomas Sheraton was one of the 'Big Three' English furniture designers of the 18th century. His design books heavily influenced Federal style furniture in America, sparking numerous revival movements in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Cultural Significance
Represents the enduring popularity of Neoclassical and Federal design aesthetics in domestic interiors during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting a desire for classical elegance and historical continuity.
Similar Pieces
Regency style armchairs, Hepplewhite shield-back chairs, and Empire occasional chairs. Distinguished by Sheraton's signature rectilinear geometry, reeding, and delicate classical proportions.
Care & Maintenance
Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Clean the wooden frame periodically with a mild furniture polish or beeswax. Professional upholstery cleaning is recommended for the seat cushion to preserve the fabric pattern.
Value Estimate
Retail/Antiques market value range: $150 - $350, depending on local demand, historical provenance, and exact condition.
Sustainability Notes
Built from durable solid hardwoods designed for long-term use and reparability, representing a sustainable alternative to modern flat-pack disposable furniture.