Stickley Morris Chair / Mission Style Slatted Armchair
Seating (Armchair, Lounge Chair) · Arts and Crafts / Mission Revival (circa 1900-1915) · In the style of Gustav Stickley or L. & J.G. Stickley, iconic makers of the American Arts and Crafts movement
Type
Seating (Armchair, Lounge Chair)
Style Period
Arts and Crafts / Mission Revival (circa 1900-1915)
Material
Solid quartersawn white oak with a fabric-upholstered cushion set
Age Estimate
Circa 1900-1920, reflecting early 20th-century American craftsman manufacturing
Dimensions
Estimated height 36 inches, width 32 inches, depth 34 inches, representing a standard, substantial proportion for a traditional Morris chair
Origin
American, crafted in the United States during the height of the Arts and Crafts movement
Designer/Maker
In the style of Gustav Stickley or L. & J.G. Stickley, iconic makers of the American Arts and Crafts movement
Value Estimate
Estimated between $1,500 and $4,000 depending on definitive maker's marks, original finish status, and provenance at specialty auction houses
Description
A classic Arts and Crafts Mission style armchair featuring sturdy quartersawn white oak construction with signature vertical slats lining the interior arms. The deep red cushions offer a striking, warm contrast to the rich fumed wood finish, emphasizing both comfort and functional beauty. This piece embodies the core philosophy of the Craftsman movement, prioritizing honest construction, exposed joinery, and durable materials.
Key Features
Quartersawn white oak with distinct medullary rays, vertical slat sides, heavy square stock legs, and exposed mortise and tenon joinery
Color & Finish
Dark fumed golden-brown oak finish showcasing the distinct grain patterns, sealed with a traditional wax or lacquer topcoat
Construction Method
Handcrafted traditional mortise and tenon joinery with exposed pinned joints, solid wood frame construction built for heavy durability
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Exceptional handcrafted mortise and tenon joinery featuring prominent exposed pins that highlight the structural integrity and high quality of the piece
Wood Grain & Species
Quartersawn white oak displaying prominent medullary rays and characteristic tiger-stripe figure across the wood surfaces
Surface Treatment
Fumed chemical finish emphasizing the natural figuring of quartersawn white oak, paired with a smooth hand-rubbed sheen
Upholstery Details
Deep red textured woven fabric cushions, loose and comfortable style with plush padding and clean welted edges
Hardware & Fittings
No visible exterior metal hardware; relies purely on exposed wooden joinery and pinned tenons
Origin & Provenance
American, crafted in the United States during the height of the Arts and Crafts movement
Condition Notes
Very Good. The wooden frame is structurally sound with minor surface wear consistent with age, and the upholstery is clean and well-maintained.
Interesting Facts
The Morris chair, named after English designer William Morris, became a staple of the American Arts and Crafts movement, celebrated for its adjustable back and robust construction.
Cultural Significance
Represents the anti-industrialization ethos of the Arts and Crafts movement, emphasizing handcrafted quality, utility, and honest expression of materials over ornate machine-made decoration.
Similar Pieces
Limbert, L. & J.G. Stickley, and Roycroft armchairs. Distinguished by subtle variations in slat spacing, corbels, and arm profile shapes.
Care & Maintenance
Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid placing in direct sunlight to prevent wood fading and cushion discoloration. Periodically apply high-quality paste wax to nourish the oak finish.
Value Estimate
Estimated between $1,500 and $4,000 depending on definitive maker's marks, original finish status, and provenance at specialty auction houses
Sustainability Notes
Built from highly durable, locally sourced North American hardwood designed to last multiple generations, representing the ultimate in sustainable, repairable furniture design.