What is a high back wing chair?

A high back wing chair is an upholstered armchair featuring projecting side panels designed to trap heat and block room draughts around the head and shoulders. Originally developed for fireside use in large historic rooms, these seats combine deep padding with a tall supportive backrest.

How old are these chairs usually?

The examples on this page range from authentic eighteenth-century Georgian pieces to nineteenth-century interpretations and early twentieth-century revival designs. Stylistic markers such as leg shape, timber choice, and frame construction help distinguish original period pieces from later country house reproductions.

Why do some chairs need re-upholstery?

Older frames occasionally retain worn historic coverings or lack modern interior padding, leading dealers to offer them ready for fresh fabric. This allows a buyer to select bespoke textiles, ranging from traditional leather to patterned wool, that suit their specific interior scheme.

What woods were used for the frames?

Cabinetmakers primarily built the structural framework using dense hardwoods like mahogany, walnut, and oak. These durable timbers supported the heavy tension of the upholstered wings and the downward pressure of deep seat stuffing.