What is a wing chair?

A wing chair is an upholstered armchair featuring high side panels, known as wings, attached to the backrest. These panels originally served to shield the occupant from drafts near open fires. Today, the form remains a prominent seating choice for living spaces, combining traditional timber frames with varied textile coverings.

How old is my wing chair?

Dating a wing chair requires examining the timber species, structural joinery, and stylistic cues from periods such as the Georgian, Victorian, or Edwardian eras. Certain pieces incorporate revival styles that mimic earlier centuries. Makers' marks, where present on the wooden frame or under upholstery, provide definitive clues to origin and approximate decade of manufacture.

How do I choose patterned fabric?

Selecting a patterned fabric involves balancing the visual weight of the design with the proportions of the armchair and the surrounding room. Traditional options recorded on this page include damask, tapestry, and printed cotton textiles. Consider how the scale of the pattern interacts with the sweeping curves of the wings and the exposed timber legs.

Where were wing chairs placed?

Historically, wing chairs stood beside hearths and fireplaces where their enclosed sides could capture heat and block cold drafts from hallways. They also served in drawing rooms and studies for reading and conversation. Their substantial presence makes them natural focal points within domestic interiors, whether paired with sofas or set alone.