Question 1

How can I tell if a chair is vintage?

Accepted Answer

Many factors like wood, construction, and patina come into play when you date a vintage chair. If you can’t find a maker’s mark or any other kind of identifying mark on the piece, consult a furniture encyclopedia or a certified expert. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of vintage chairs from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 2

How old does a chair have to be to be vintage?

Accepted Answer

To be vintage, a chair typically needs to be at least 20 years old, while a chair older than 100 years is an antique. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique, vintage and modern dining chairs from some of the world's top sellers.

Question 3

Is my vintage Eames chair real?

Accepted Answer

To know if your vintage Eames chair is real, check for a reclining mechanism. On original chairs, the back had a permanent reclined position, so no mechanism is necessary. Also, a vintage piece is around 32 inches high, while later reproductions are normally bigger. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of expertly vetted Eames chairs.

Question 4

How can you tell how old a vintage chair is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old a vintage chair is, first try and locate the manufacturer's label, tag or mark. Typically, identifying markings and tags appear under cushions or on the undersides of chairs. You may find that the date of manufacturing appears on the label or tag. If not, check trusted online resources to find out when the manufacturer was in business to make an estimate of the age. When in doubt, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or antiques dealer to help you date a particular chair. Find an assortment of antique, vintage and modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is the difference between a lounge chair and a chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between a lounge chair and a chair is specificity. A chair is the general term for furniture typically designed to seat one person at a time, and there are many different kinds of chairs, including dining, accent and office chairs. Lounge chairs are another example of a specific type of chair. They are chairs with a footrest that allows you to elevate your feet while sitting. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of chairs.

Question 6

How can you tell if a chair is an Eames chair?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a chair is an Eames chair, take a look under the seat or cushion. Authentic Eames lounge chairs are manufactured by Herman Miller and Vitra. If your Eames chair is a Herman Miller original, look for the legendary manufacturer’s specific logomarks on the product (these logomarks can be found on the company’s official website). There is also the manufacturing label, which is usually found under the seat or cushion (unless a former owner removed it). All of the classic Herman Miller designs are paired with a certificate of authenticity. Some designs may also have a medallion attached to certify their authenticity. You can then check trusted online resources to determine if the information on the label is correct for the style of chair (and more info on its construction is available on the official Eames website). You won’t see screws outside of the wood shells on an authentic Eames lounge chair, and prior to the 1970s, original vintage Eames lounge chairs were made with no more than five layers of plywood (during the 1970s, the chairs were made with seven layers). Find a variety of authentic Eames chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is the difference between an accent chair and a dining chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between an accent chair and a dining chair comes down to function and design. An accent chair usually goes in a seating area, and makers craft them with comfort in mind. As a result, most accent chairs feature cushioning and upholstery and are characterized by generous proportions. The purpose of a dining chair is to provide a place to sit while enjoying a meal. Usually, dining chairs are lighter and smaller than accent chairs for easy maneuvering. While they may have padded seats and backrests, dining chairs generally aren't as abundantly cushioned as accent chairs. Explore a large selection of chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 8

Why is a club chair called a club chair?

Accepted Answer

A club chair is called a club chair because the accent chairs became popular in the interior décor of gentleman's clubs in France. The original name for the club chair is “fauteuil confortable," which translates to "comfortable chair." You'll find a collection of club chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What is the difference between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair can be easily explained in that garden armchairs are called Adirondack in the USA and Muskoka in Canada. While they both have short legs, bent reclining seats, wide armrests and high backs, the Adirondack chair is 2 inches higher from the floor and 2 inches wider. The Adirondack chair uses a flat yoke at the back while Muskoka might use curved yokes. Shop for an Adirondack chair or Muskoka chair on 1stDibs.

Question 10

What is the difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair is style. A side chair is a very commonly used dining chair. The form of a side chair may vary, but the constant is the lack of armrests to keep hands free for eating and to save space at the table. A Parsons chair is a type of side chair that features upholstery on the seat and back. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 11

What is the difference between a club chair and an armchair?

Accepted Answer

There is no difference between a club chair and an armchair; a club chair is a type of armchair. An armchair is any chair with arms, while a club chair is a wide, comfortable type of armchair that is typically clad in leather and features thick upholstery. All club chairs are armchairs, but not all armchairs are club chairs. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of club chairs.

Question 12

What is the difference between a task chair and an executive chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between a task chair and an executive chair is that most task chairs will have adjustable seat height as well as swivel and tilt functions. Task chairs are lightweight and mobile but are not intended for long periods of continuous use. Executive chairs are meant to be more comfortable and are usually designed with high backrests. An executive chair is intended for long periods of use compared to a task chair, which in some cases may be armless and isn’t going to provide the premium comfort that can be expected from an executive chair. Task chairs are also typically less expensive than executive chairs. Find a variety of antique, modern and contemporary task chairs and executive chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 13

What is the difference between a lounge chair and an accent chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between a lounge chair and an accent chair pertains to purpose. Typically, a lounge chair is wider and deeper than an accent chair and tends to have a thicker cushion. These stylistic differences owe to the fact that lounge chairs are meant to provide luxurious, comfortable seating for long periods of time, while accent chairs are more often intended to add visual appeal to a living room. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of living room chairs.

Question 14

What is the difference between an occasional chair and an accent chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between an occasional chair and an accent chair comes down to usage. An occasional chair is a decorative chair that is placed in a room for its look rather than to function as an everyday seating solution. As a result, occasional chairs may be used infrequently. An accent chair is any decorative chair placed in a seating area. They can be used only occasionally or on a daily basis. Explore a wide variety of chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 15

What is a recliner chair?

Accepted Answer

A recliner chair is an armchair that moves in such a way that a user can sit with their feet elevated. Usually controlled by a button or lever, the recliner mechanism simultaneously raises the footrest and tilts the backrest. Sofas, loveseats and sectionals may also include recliner functionality. Find a range of recliner chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What is the function of a chair?

Accepted Answer

The function of a chair is to provide a place for a person to sit. In eating areas, chairs make it easy to gather around a table to enjoy a meal. A chair in a seating area allows a user to settle in and relax while reading, carrying on a conversation, watching television and performing other activities. Office chairs provide comfortable seating at desks. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of chairs.

Question 17

What is a Selig chair?

Accepted Answer

A Selig chair is a chair imported by or produced by Selig, an American furniture company. Selig created Danish-inspired chairs, sofas and other furnishings for the home that were cutting-edge, contemporary and airy. The brand was also among the first to introduce Scandinavian and European modern styles to Americans in the 1950s and 60s. The company imported and manufactured furniture known for its extraordinary design and style using high-quality, enduring and seductive materials. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Selig chairs.

Question 18

What are timeless chairs?

Accepted Answer

Timeless chairs are generally furnishings that are considered iconic designs and remain in demand year after year. These are objects that have been produced in multiples and have earned landmark status in design history. Examples of timeless chairs include the Eames lounge chair by Charles and Ray Eames, the Wishbone chair by Hans J. Wegner, the Egg chair by Arne Jacobsen and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. Find a variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 19

What is an angel chair?

Accepted Answer

An angel chair can refer to one of two kinds of chairs. The first is a piece created by Fratelli Boffi, featuring a gold leaf-finished wood frame that has a curvy shape similar to angel wings. Another angel chair is a design by Brazilian artist Alê Jordão. Made from repurposed Volkswagen Beetle car parts painted silver, the chair features a dramatically curved back resembling angel wings. Explore a large selection of chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What is a Cromwell chair?

Accepted Answer

A Cromwell chair was a style of chair popular during the Puritan period. The chair features a leather back and seat and is finished with studded brass-headed nails. You’ll find a variety of antique and vintage furniture on 1stDibs.

Vintage Chairs Other

1960s South American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Set of Four Rosewood Chairs Model 4015 by Geraldo de Barros, Unilabor, 1960

1950s South American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Set of Six Chairs in Rosewood, Model 4015 by Geraldo de Barros, Unilabor, 1950s

1960s Scandinavian Vintage Chairs Other

Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Dining Chair Model Liz by Niels Koefoed

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Custom Ordered Cerused Oak Finish Chairs by Paoli

1970s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Leather Lounge Chair & Ottoman by HICKORY CHAIR

1970s Vintage Chairs Other

Oversized Lounge Chairs by HICKORY CHAIR - Set of 2

1980s French Provincial Vintage Chairs Other

French Dining Chairs Leather Chambly Vintage by HICKORY CHAIR Co

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Set of Transitional Tripod Lounge Chairs in Wool, circa 1950s

Mid-20th Century Indian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Pierre Jeanneret, French Mid-Century Modern, Six Dining Chairs, Teak, Chandigarh

1960s American Other Vintage Chairs Other

Herman Miller Eames ’ Aluminum Chair

1940s French Brutalist Vintage Chairs Other

Pair of brutalist chairs

20th Century French Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Rattan Chair, circa 1955

1980s French Other Vintage Chairs Other

Jean Prouvé, Lounge Chair 1980

1970s Other Vintage Chairs Other

Sculptural Chairs After Pable Picasso

1950s Italian Vintage Chairs Other

Chiavarina High Back Chair, Italy, 1950s

1950s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Pair of Italian Chairs

1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Sculptural Chair, circa 1950

1970s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Green Ted Net folding chair

Mid-20th Century Post-Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Marcel Breuer b34 Chair 1930s

1950s American Other Vintage Chairs Other

Italian Chiavari Brass Accent Chair

1950s American Other Vintage Chairs Other

Italian Chiavari Brass Accent Chair

20th Century French Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Set of Four Elm Chair

Late 20th Century French Brutalist Vintage Chairs Other

Set of Six Brutalist Chairs

1940s French Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Set of Six Dudouyt Chairs

Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Midcentury Afromosia Framed Rocking Chair

20th Century French Brutalist Vintage Chairs Other

Set of six chairs in oak "Victor Courtray

1970s European Other Vintage Chairs Other

Set De 4 Chairs, Scandinavian Design, 1970

1980s Swedish Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Borge Lindau X75-2 Chairs by Lammhults

1950s Italian Vintage Chairs Other

Vintage Iron and Plastic Children's Chair, Italy, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Italian Other Vintage Chairs Other

Pair of Italian Chiavarine Vintage Chairs

1950s European Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Victor Courtray Set of 12 Chairs

1960s German Vintage Chairs Other

50s-60s Chair Chairs Frankfurt Chair Bauhaus Mid Century Design

1940s Italian Other Vintage Chairs Other

Paolo Buffa Chair Wood Padded seat 1940 Italy

1950s Italian Other Vintage Chairs Other

Carlo Ratti Chairs Wood Brass Skin 1955, Italy

1950s Italian Other Vintage Chairs Other

Osvaldo Borsani Chairs Wood Skin 1950 Italy

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Chairs Other

Mid 20th MCM Mr. Chair Lounge Chair & Ottoman by George Mulhauser for Plycraft

1950s Italian Other Vintage Chairs Other

Ico Parisi Chair Beechwood Upholstered in Teak, 1950, Italy

1960s German Vintage Chairs Other

4x 50s 60s chair chairs Frankfurt chair Bauhaus Mid Century Design

1970s European Vintage Chairs Other

2x 70s Chairs Dining Chair Danish Upholstered Chair Mid Century Design

1960s French Modern Vintage Chairs Other