1920s Upholstered Chairs
These 1920s upholstered chairs bring period character and deep comfort to a room through varied forms like club chairs, wing armchairs, and dining seats.
1920s Upholstered Chairs
When you search for 1920s upholstered chairs, you encounter a diverse array of seating that spans club chairs, armchairs, wing armchairs, side chairs, and dining chairs. The selection ranges widely in form and origin, encompassing French club chairs, Swedish Grace dining chairs, and traditional American rocking chairs.
The most common versions on this page are armchairs and club chairs from the 1920 and 1930 periods. These pieces frequently display influences of Art Deco, French Art Deco, Edwardian styles, and French Revival designs.
Alongside dedicated armchairs, the inventory includes smaller bedroom chairs, side chairs, and larger library or wing armchairs. Walnut and wood frames appear regularly, supporting both fabric and leather upholstery.
What varies in quality
The distinction between tiers rests in the integrity of the frame timbers and the fidelity of the designated style, whether Art Deco, Edwardian, or French Revival. Solid walnut and elm framing paired with skilled joinery represent the higher end of the range.
Material selection for the covering, spanning heavy leather, velvet, and textured fabric, alters the presence of each piece. The execution of specific details, such as carved gilt elements, split cane panels, or barrel back contours, defines the sophistication of individual examples.
Listings feature seating from the 1920 and 1930 periods alongside occasional 19th-century pieces.
Bath Cabinet Makers
The 1920s Upholstered Chairs Glossary
- Bergere
- An enclosed upholstered armchair with wooden frames and cane panelling to the sides and back. This French form provides a lighter visual weight while maintaining generous proportions.
- Fauteuil
- An open-armed upholstered armchair originating in France, featuring exposed wooden arms and frame elements. These chairs typically combine decorative woodwork with padded seating.
- Klismos
- An ancient Greek chair shape revived during neoclassical and Art Deco periods, characterised by curved, sweeping legs and a concave backrest. The Swedish elm dining chairs on this page demonstrate this form.
- Club chair
- A deep, comfortable armchair traditionally upholstered in leather or heavy fabric. These heavy lounge seats originated in France and provide low, enveloping backrests.
- Wing armchair
- A high-backed chair with side panels designed to shield the sitter from draughts. Versions from this era utilise walnut and heavy upholstery fabrics.
1920s Upholstered Chairs: Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a 1920s club chair?
These chairs are characterised by deep, low seats and thick upholstery designed for lounging. They frequently appear in pairs and utilise leather or heavy fabric coverings.
Makers often shaped them with rounded barrel backs or low elbow supports, reflecting the practical comfort sought during the period.
How do I identify Art Deco armchairs?
Art Deco seating from this era displays streamlined geometric forms or sleek curved silhouettes. The frames utilise woods like walnut and elm, occasionally paired with smooth leather or ribbed fabric.
They stand apart from earlier Edwardian or 19th-century pieces through their emphasis on modern, uncluttered lines.
Where were bergere chairs placed?
Bergere chairs served as prominent seating in drawing rooms, libraries, and parlours. Their exposed wooden frames and cane sides offered a lighter aesthetic suitable for formal entertaining.
Today, they function well as reading chairs or accent pieces in living spaces.
Can I mix dining chairs from this era?
Sets of dining chairs from this period include painted wooden frames, bentwood designs, and Swedish elm klismos forms. Mixing sets depends on matching wood tones and seat heights rather than strict uniformity.
Grouping similar painted or walnut chairs creates an eclectic yet cohesive dining arrangement.