How do I date a button back arm chair?

Dating relies on examining the timber species, leg turning style, and frame construction beneath the upholstery. Victorian pieces often display heavier mahogany or walnut frames with porcelain or brass castors, while later Edwardian examples lean toward lighter occasional proportions. Secondary clues include the type of internal webbing and stuffing materials visible through wear or restoration. Comparing the stylistic markers against established nineteenth-century design periods helps narrow the manufacturing window.

Were these chairs used in offices?

Certain configurations, particularly those featuring revolving mechanisms and leather upholstery, served primarily as library or desk seating. These heavier variants allowed scholars and professionals to work comfortably while maintaining a formal domestic appearance. Standard open armchairs and fireside models remained in living rooms and bedrooms, while swivelling desk chairs were tailored specifically for studies and offices.

What is the difference between Victorian and Edwardian examples?

Victorian models typically feature heavier timbers, darker wood tones, and robust frames designed for substantial domestic parlours and libraries. Upholstery from this era often utilises deep velvet, heavy fabrics, or dark leather. Edwardian pieces generally present lighter overall proportions, brighter wood finishes, and more delicate framing suitable for smaller bedroom spaces or occasional rooms.

How do I care for leather button back chairs?

Leather upholstery requires regular dusting and periodic treatment with appropriate leather balms to prevent the hide from drying out around the deep folds. Keeping the furniture away from direct sunlight and heat sources preserves the suppleness of the material. Particular attention should be paid to the button tufts, where dust naturally accumulates, requiring gentle cleaning with a soft brush attachment.

Home > Button Back Arm Chair > Page 4

Button Back Arm Chair

99 items · page 4 of 7

← Page 4 of 7 →

A button back arm chair offers deep upholstery pulled into characteristic tufts, combining generous proportions with traditional seating comfort.

19th century

Save

Victorian Walnut Open Arm Chair

From Philip Hunt Antiques

£895

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

1900 - 1920

Save

Open Arm Upholstered Armchair.

From Rupert Hitchcox Antiques

£135

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

19th century

Save

Gentlemans Victorian Open Arm Chair

From Salisbury Antiques Centre

£560

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

Howard and Sons Open Armchair - Recovered

19th century

Save

Howard and Sons Open Armchair - Recovered

From Kontrast Antiques

£3,995

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

Superb Large Victorian Mahogany Armchair

19th century

Save

Superb Large Victorian Mahogany Armchair

From John Howkins Antiques

£1,150

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

Victorian Upholstered Button Back Bedroom Chair.

19th century

Save

Victorian Upholstered Button Back Bedroom Chair.

From Rupert Hitchcox Antiques

£135

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

19th century

Save

Antique Woodstock Style Tub Armchair.

From Kontrast Antiques

£1,095

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

19th century

Save

Antique Spoon Back Armchair

From Kontrast Antiques

£1,295

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

Antique Spoon Back Armchair Buttoned and Covered in Brown Velvet.

19th century

Save

Antique Spoon Back Armchair Buttoned and Covered in Brown Velvet.

From Kontrast Antiques

£1,495

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

Regency Spoon Back & Lyre Front Armchair.

19th century

Save

Regency Spoon Back & Lyre Front Armchair.

From Kontrast Antiques

£3,395

3+ MONTHS AGO

chairs

Listings feature button back arm chairs spanning from the early nineteenth century through the Edwardian era, incorporating mahogany, walnut, leather, and velvet.