Parsons Chair / Upholstered Dining Chair
Seating (Dining Chair) · Contemporary / Modern (Originated 1930s at Parsons School of Design) · Generic contemporary manufacturer inspired by the classic Parsons chair design
Type
Seating (Dining Chair)
Style Period
Contemporary / Modern (Originated 1930s at Parsons School of Design)
Material
Wood frame with foam padding and fabric upholstery; solid wood or metal legs
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 10-20 years
Dimensions
Standard dining chair: approx. 38 inches high, 20 inches wide, 24 inches deep
Origin
Likely manufactured globally for the contemporary retail market
Designer/Maker
Generic contemporary manufacturer inspired by the classic Parsons chair design
Value Estimate
Retail value estimated between $100 to $300 depending on brand and fabric quality
Description
A striking contemporary Parsons-style dining chair upholstered in a rich red velvet fabric. The clean, straight silhouette is enhanced by sophisticated nailhead trim running along the edges of the high backrest. The simple yet elegant profile allows it to function seamlessly as a dining chair, accent chair, or desk chair, bringing a bold splash of color and modern sophistication to any interior.
Key Features
Fully upholstered body, tall straight back, luxurious red velvet fabric, decorative nailhead trim, and simple block or slightly tapered legs
Color & Finish
Vibrant red velvet upholstery with dark or black-stained wooden legs, featuring silver-tone nailhead trim
Construction Method
Factory-assembled with glued and doweled joints, fully upholstered frame over structural wood
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Mortise and tenon or heavy dowel joinery hidden beneath upholstery; clean lines and standard commercial craftsmanship
Wood Grain & Species
Hardwood frame; legs feature a dark opaque finish concealing underlying grain
Surface Treatment
Smooth opaque painted or stained finish on visible legs; velvet fabric nap on upholstery
Upholstery Details
Red velvet fabric with high-density foam padding, fully upholstered back and seat, accented with single-row metallic nailhead trim along the back border
Hardware & Fittings
Decorative nailhead studs along the outer perimeter of the chair back
Origin & Provenance
Likely manufactured globally for the contemporary retail market
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good, gently used condition with intact upholstery and structurally sound frame
Interesting Facts
The Parsons chair was originally designed in 1936 by Jean-Michel Frank at the Parsons School of Design in Paris, intended to be a chair so basic and devoid of specific historical reference that its appearance would be entirely determined by the materials used to cover it.
Cultural Significance
A staple of modern interior design, representing the democratization of minimalist elegance in everyday home furnishings
Similar Pieces
Parson chair variants, Parsons dining stools, and traditional high-back upholstered chairs; distinguished primarily by leg style and exact proportions
Care & Maintenance
Vacuum velvet regularly with a soft brush attachment to prevent flattening of the pile; spot clean upholstery with water-free solvent or professional upholstery cleaner
Value Estimate
Retail value estimated between $100 to $300 depending on brand and fabric quality
Sustainability Notes
Standard modern manufacturing; durability and timeless design contribute to extended lifecycle and reduced need for replacement