Identifying the Era in Which Antique Chairs Were Made

 Residing in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Hampton Barringer Luzak has an extensive background in media and advertising. One of Hampton B. Luzak’s interests is interior design, and she excels at placing antiques within residential settings.

Identifying the exact period in which antique chairs were made can be challenging. This typically starts with seeking out markings. Across the 18th and 19th centuries, markings were often burned or carved into the wood on the chair frame’s underside (or under the upholstery). This discreet placement maintained emphasis on the intricate designs of the era. Paper and metal labels from makers were also common, but these have typically peeled or worn off over the years.

Construction techniques are also vital in chair identification, with complex dove-tail and other handmade joints associated with the late 1600s and early 1700s. With the industrial revolution, symmetry became much more prevalent, due to precision machining. Materials also changed, with oak common across the early Georgian period (1714-1830) and mahogany prevalent from the late-Georgian to Victorian eras. Ebonized beech came in vogue as the 20th century approached.

Design work is also paramount in identifying specific makers and eras. Antique furniture designers of note included Thomas Chippendale, Thomas Sheraton, and George Hepplewhite.