What is a carver armchair?

A carver armchair is an armed seat traditionally made to accompany a set of dining chairs for the head of the table. These chairs also function as desk or study seats. The listings show carver armchairs produced across various periods, from the eighteenth century through to twentieth-century revivals.

Which woods are used for these chairs?

Makers utilised a variety of hardwoods for the frames, predominantly mahogany, oak, and walnut. Other materials such as satinwood, birch, and pitch pine also appear. These timbers were selected for their strength and suitability for carving detailed ornamentation.

How do I identify a Regency chair?

Regency chairs date from the early nineteenth century and often feature classical lines influenced by Greek and Roman design. Mahogany was frequently utilised during this period. Details such as curved backs and sabre legs help distinguish chairs from this era.

Can these chairs be used at a desk?

Many carver armchairs and desk chairs from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries were built specifically for study or office use. Their armed design offers additional support during prolonged sitting. Examples include Regency mahogany desk chairs and Victorian walnut desk armchairs.