What is a nursing chair?

A nursing chair is a low Victorian armchair designed originally to provide comfort during child care. The reduced seat height allowed for a relaxed seating posture. Such chairs frequently feature button-backed upholstery and a carved walnut or mahogany frame. They fit easily into modern bedrooms and drawing rooms as occasional seating.

How do I identify a Victorian armchair?

Victorian armchairs are identified by their use of timbers like walnut and mahogany, alongside deep button upholstery and sprung seats. Show frames often display curved or carved wooden outlines. They span various forms from low slipper chairs to fireside armchairs. The weight of the timber and the style of the carving point directly to mid to late nineteenth-century manufacture.

Where were these chairs used?

These chairs served multiple rooms in nineteenth and early twentieth century homes, including drawing rooms, libraries, and bedrooms. Lighter slipper chairs and ladies chairs belonged in private chambers. Larger armchairs and wingback seating furnished libraries and fireside settings. Dining chairs furnished formal dining spaces in sets.

What is a Howard style armchair?

A Howard style armchair refers to a comfortable, deep-seated upholstered form inspired by the renowned Victorian and Edwardian firm. These pieces prioritise generous padding and relaxed proportions. They often feature turned wooden legs on castors supporting heavy textile upholstery. The design remains a benchmark for upholstered comfort.