Deep Buttoned Tub Armchair
A deep buttoned tub armchair offers a rounded, enclosing silhouette paired with characteristic upholstery that suits both studies and drawing rooms.
Deep Buttoned Tub Armchair
A deep buttoned tub armchair brings together a curved, enclosing back and generous upholstery, creating a seated form designed for sustained comfort. When you search for a deep buttoned tub armchair, you encounter nineteenth-century examples alongside early twentieth-century interpretations.
The selections span Victorian, Edwardian, and Regency periods, often appearing in mahogany, walnut, or rosewood frames. These seating pieces function equally well as library chairs, desk companions, or individual drawing-room accents.
How they were made
Frames rely on sturdy timbers such as mahogany, walnut, and rosewood, shaped to form the signature curved tub back. Artisans secured deep buttoning through the upholstery to create the characteristic geometric tension across the backrest.
Coverings range from supple leather to velvet, silk, and fabric, often finished with brass detailing or subtle wood polish. Iron elements occasionally support the internal structure of country house variations.
One exceptional armchair hides its iron backbone beneath traditional buttoned upholstery.
What varies in quality
The calibre of a deep buttoned tub armchair rests upon the precision of the timber frame and the depth of the upholstery work. Superior pieces display harmonious proportions in the curved back and careful execution of the button tufting.
Material selection dictates much of the character, with fine leather patination and rich mahogany or walnut frames marking out the more distinguished examples in the range.
Howard & Sons·Gillows
The Deep Buttoned Tub Armchair Glossary
- Tub armchair
- A seating piece featuring a continuous curved back and arms forming a single rounded enclosure. This shape provides a snug, supportive posture.
- Deep buttoning
- An upholstery technique where buttons are pulled tight into the padding to form indented diamond patterns. This method secures the stuffing while adding texture.
- Mahogany
- A durable, reddish-brown timber utilised extensively for nineteenth-century furniture frames. It takes a smooth polish and offers strong structural support.
- Ebonised
- Wood treated with a dark finish to resemble ebony. This treatment provides a stark, formal contrast to gilt or lighter decorative accents.
Deep Buttoned Tub Armchair: Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I place a tub armchair?
These rounded seats fit naturally beside a fireplace, within a home library, or paired with a writing desk.
Their compact circular footprint allows them to occupy corners or anchor conversational groupings without dominating the room.
How do I identify a Victorian tub chair?
Victorian examples frequently utilise dense hardwoods like mahogany alongside characteristic deep button upholstery.
Look for robust timber frames and traditional proportions dating from the nineteenth century.
What is the difference between leather and fabric upholstery on these chairs?
Leather options develop a rich patination over decades of use and offer a traditional club chair aesthetic.
Fabric, velvet, or silk coverings introduce softer textures and varied colour palettes suited to drawing rooms.
Can these chairs be used at a desk?
Certain variations serve specifically as desk or captain's chairs, combining the curved tub back with a stable wooden base.
These pieces provide ergonomic support during prolonged periods of writing or study.