Antique Armchairs
A classic piece for any fanatic of ast craftsmanship, an antique armchair adds an air of time-worn charm to any space. Whether you like to slouch down into a yielding leather antique armchair with a good book or need something large and comfortable for snuggled-up movie nights, you’ll discover it in our characterful collection.An essential piece in any home, the humble armchair anchors a space and provides somewhere to escape to whenever needed. Our collection of antique armchairs spans the last few centuries, with Napolean-style tub chairs, Regency-period occassionals, Arts & Crafts spindle-backed designs and more available.Shop the entire Vinterior collection in our marketplace below and find your one-of-a-kind antique armchair for sale today.
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What are the origins of antique armchairs?
It’s hard to pinpoint the exact origins of antique armchairs. Humankind has been making what we know of as chairs since around 2600 BCE, when ancient Mesopotamians are known to have used them. However, our collection includes pieces over 100 years old and typically only spans back to the late 17th century.
Antique armchairs typically use unconventional cushioning such as bird feathers and wool compared to modern alternatives such as alternative foaming.
Armchairs boomed from 1828 when coiled springs were introduced, especially flourishing in the Georgian and Victorian periods. Providing today’s dealers with many antique armchair styles to source and sell.
Oak was the common material in the 18th century, however, this shifted to mahogany and walnut in more recent periods. Other materials are hickory, cherry and ash, all of which are durable, hardwoods in contrast to pine for example.
What are some common styles of antique armchair?
In the Vinterior collection, you’ll find original antique armchairs for sale. Our team has curated one-of-a-kind pieces, sourced by trusted sellers, to offer you an exceptional and characterful edit. However, with the antique period spanning several centuries, there is numerous style of antique armchair to choose from. Below, we take a look at some of the common types of antique armchairs you’ll find here.
The Chaise Longue
Otherwise named as the récamiers, chaise longues, and fainting couches, the chaise longue is a type of armchair is a quirky alternative where you lie down rather than sit. It is an elongation of the Bergere. The back is high, with encircling arms, and the long, padded seat was usually upholstered. It embodies a Louis XVI style. Another style of chaise is the Duchesse, which was prominent in France as part of the Rococo style.
The Hogarth Chair
These chairs frequently have yoke-shaped top rails and back splats often have a solid vase shape. Seats most often feature a horseshoe shape or compass shape and they are not upholstered.
The Windsor Chair
Dating from the 18th century, the Windsor chair is a wooden armchair where the back and sides consist of multiple thin, turned spindles that are attached to a solid, sculpted seat. It has straight legs that splay outward, and the back reclines slightly.
Where to find antique armchairs for sale in the UK?
The best place to find high-quality characterful antique armchairs for sale is right here at Vinterior. Shop the collection and find your favourite piece today.