Georgian Style Wingback
A georgian style wingback is a substantial fireside seat designed to keep out draughts, built to anchor a room.
Georgian Style Wingback
A georgian style wingback takes the form of an enclosed armchair or settee designed to shelter the sitter from cold draughts by the hearth. The pieces span genuine 18th century examples alongside later revivals from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Armchairs dominate the selections, alongside occasional settees and pairs of chairs. Walnut and mahogany frames appear frequently, supporting upholstery in leather, velvet, fabric, and calico.
How they were made
Frames are built from hardwoods such as mahogany and walnut, occasionally featuring carved details or brass accents. Upholstery methods range from traditional feather filling and buttoning to simple calico coverings awaiting final fabric.
Makers shaped structural wings and high backs onto timber armchairs and settees, employing wood, leather, and fabric to achieve both comfort and durability.
Georgian Style Wingback Retail Price Guide 2026
Typical asking prices for georgian style wingback among the pieces listed under this phrase on Sellingantiques today, from the lower quarter to the upper quarter. They describe what is for sale here now, not the wider market.
Armchairs and settees appear alongside paired seating in various revival styles.
What varies in quality
The integrity of the timber frame and the precision of any carved woodwork distinguish finer examples from standard production. Proportion and the crispness of the wing shape dictate the visual balance of the piece.
The choice of covering, whether aged leather or hand-applied buttoning, alters the character and finish of the armchair.
The Georgian Style Wingback Glossary
- Calico
- An unbleached cotton fabric used as a base layer or preliminary upholstery stage before final covering.
- Chippendale Style
- A decorative aesthetic drawing on 18th century cabinet-making traditions, often seen in mahogany woodwork.
- Queen Anne Style
- A design period known for fluid lines and walnut construction, preceding the heavier Georgian forms.
- Wingback
- An armchair featuring protective side panels attached to the arms to deflect fireside draughts.
Georgian Style Wingback: Frequently Asked Questions
How were wingback chairs used?
The side wings were originally designed to shield the sitter's head and torso from cold draughts in large rooms.
They served as primary fireside seating in traditional English country houses and drawing rooms.
What materials are used?
Frames are constructed from hardwoods including mahogany, walnut, and general wood.
Upholstery materials include leather, velvet, fabric, calico, and feather fillings.
How do I identify the period?
Dating relies on timber choice, frame construction methods, and stylistic cues such as Queen Anne or Chippendale influences.
Pieces span the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries, including specific revivals.