How do I reupholster a barrel back chair?

Reupholster a barrel back chair by first removing the old upholstery from the chair. Use the old pieces of material as a guide to help you cut the new upholstery into properly sized pieces. Reupholster the chair by using a furniture stapler to re-secure the new upholstery in the same manner that the old upholstery was attached. Shop a range of vintage and contemporary barrel back chairs on 1stDibs.

What are barrel chairs?

Barrel chairs have high, semicircular backs which form a single piece with the arms.

What is a barrel chair?

Barrel chairs are accent chairs that feature a curved back shaped like half of a barrel. In some cases, the back slopes down at the sides to form arms. Other pieces are armless or have separate rolled arms at the sides. You'll find a variety of barrel chairs on 1stDibs.

Who invented the barrel chair?

No one knows who invented the barrel chair originally, or even where the chairs appeared first. They became popular during the mid to late 19th century, but it was Frank Lloyd Wright who made them famous when he designed an iconic version for Wingspread, a home he designed in Wind Point, Wisconsin. Wright also used his Taliesin Barrel chair to furnish his own home in Wisconsin. Shop a selection of barrel chairs on 1stDibs.

What era are barrel chairs from?

The earliest barrel chairs are from is the era of the early 19th century. However, Frank Lloyd Wright created one of the most famous barrel chairs in 1937 as a part of his design for Wingspread, a home in Wind Point, Wisconsin. On 1stDibs, find a collection of barrel chairs.

What is a Windsor back chair?

A Windsor back chair is a solid wooden chair with an arched spindle back. Most designs have curved arms positioned on angled stands and carved legs connected by a cross stretcher. The chair gets its name from the English city of Windsor, where the chairs were first made in the 18th century. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Windsor back chairs.

What is the back of a chair called?

The back of a chair is called a chair back. In some cases, you may see people use modifiers to describe the styles of chair backs. For example, a chair with two crisscrossing cross rails is an X-back or cross back, while a chair with a series of horizontal cross rails positioned parallel to one another is a ladder back. Explore a wide range of chairs on 1stDibs.

What is a splat back chair?

A splat back chair is a chair with a vertical central element on its back. Splat back chairs have more of a formal feel to them compared to other types of chairs and seating. Splat back Windsor chairs are popular on 1stDibs.

What is a yoke back chair?

Yoke back chairs are those that feature a curved top rail and a single central splat. The style of chair originated in China during the 10th century and was a common feature in Chinese homes by the 12th century. On 1stDibs, shop a range of yoke back chairs.

What is a bow back chair?

A bow back chair refers to a silhouette of a chair with a curved back and is usually made with high-quality wood. Bow back chairs were popular during the colonial period and are representative of American-Amish heritage. Browse a range of vintage bow back chairs on 1stDibs.

What is a channel back chair?

A channel back chair is a chair that features deep channels in the upholstery along the back. These can create a seashell-like effect. This kind of back may also be called a fluted back. On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage and new channel back chairs.

What is a lyre back chair?

A lyre back chair is a type of furniture used for seating that originated during the early 18th century. It features a square back embellished with wood shaped like a lyre, an ancient stringed musical instrument. On 1stDibs, find a variety of lyre back chairs.

What is a low back chair?

A low-back chair is designed to provide lumbar support to the lower back and mid-back. These chairs have a small backrest that reaches till the middle of one's back. Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary low back chairs from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

What is a balloon back chair?

A balloon back chair is a specific type of seat that became popular during the Victorian era. It features a curved back that tapers as it travels down to the seat. Many balloon back chairs are armless, and nearly all examples feature upholstered seats. You'll find a range of balloon back chairs on 1stDibs.

What is a sling back chair?

A sling chair is usually made up of a framework connected by ropes or fabric hanging between the poles or frame. This design results in a structure quite similar to a sling stretcher.

What is a spoon back chair?

A spoon back chair is an accent chair that features a deep curved back that forms arms along the sides of the furniture by sloping downward. Most spoon back chairs have wooden backs and upholstered seats. Find a variety of spoon back chairs on 1stDibs.

What is a comb back chair?

A comb back chair is a style of chair featuring a back resembling a comb. Comb back chairs are also known as Windsor chairs and are typically crafted with a cage-like backing. Shop a selection of comb back chairs on 1stDibs.

What are rounded back chairs called?

Countless chair styles have incorporated rounded backs over the centuries, including the famous club chair. Some interior designers favor round-back chairs for their sleek curvatures. Shop a collection of rounded back chairs from some of the world’s top sellers Oon 1stDibs.

What is a high back office chair?

A high back office chair has a tall backrest to provide support to both your back and neck. It helps minimize the risk of chronic neck and back problems. These chairs also come with wheels attached for ease of mobility. Shop a range of antique and vintage high back office chairs on 1stDibs.

When were cane back chairs popular?

While cane back chairs have been made around the globe for thousands of years, it was in the 1970s that this style took the world by storm and became a must for many households. It’s the organic, natural look of a cane back chair that made it so desirable and that makes it a modern furniture element as well, with its tropical vibe and vacation attitude. Shop a collection of cane back chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Barrel Back Chair

English Barrels

Barrel Bar

Costes Chair

Milo Baughman Chairs 1960

Oak Barrel

George Barrel

Mid Century Modern Tub Chair

Old Hickory Adirondack Chair

Pair Barrel back tub chairs in woven silk damask

$5,534 / set

Pair Barrel back tub chairs in woven silk damask

Located in London, GB

An Italian vintage pair of barrel back Tub chairs upholstered in yellow/gold woven silk damask

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Lounge Chairs

Materials

Damask, Silk

Pair of Vintage Barrel Back Italian Side Chairs

$2,500 / set

Pair of Vintage Barrel Back Italian Side Chairs

Located in Brooklyn, NY

These vintage Italian Art Deco style chairs make a dramatic statement with their fluted hardwood

Category

Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Side Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Hardwood

Pair of Vintage Green Barrel Back Swivel Lounge Chairs

$2,350 / set

Pair of Vintage Green Barrel Back Swivel Lounge Chairs

Located in Brooklyn, NY

barrel back lounge chairs. Featuring a classic curved silhouette, these chairs offer a supportive

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Fabric

Pair of Teak Horseshoe Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

$1,800 / set

Pair of Teak Horseshoe Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Mid-Century Modern lacquered teak X bases lounge chairs.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Teak

Vintage Chromed Barrel Back U-Form Lounge Club Chair

$1,950

Vintage Chromed Barrel Back U-Form Lounge Club Chair

By Leon Rosen, Pace Manufacturing, Milo Baughman

Located in Chicago, IL

Mod U-form barrel back lounge chair in solid bar steel. This needs reupholstery. Attributed to

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

MCM Low Profile Barrel Back Lounge Chairs, C. 1950s

$7,800 / set

MCM Low Profile Barrel Back Lounge Chairs, C. 1950s

Located in Westport, CT

A stunning pair of low-profile barrel back lounge chairs in the style of Adrian Pearsall, circa

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Bouclé, Walnut

English 19th Century Rosewood Upholstered Barrel Wing Back Chair

$4,850

English 19th Century Rosewood Upholstered Barrel Wing Back Chair

Located in Atlanta, GA

English 19th Century Rosewood Upholstered Barrel Wing Back Chair

Category

Antique 19th Century English Wingback Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

$2,595 / set

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Simple and elegant pair of barrel back lounge armchairs with chrome tube frames. Great size and

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Vintage Baroque Safari Print Barrel Back Accent Lounge Chair

$1,650

Vintage Baroque Safari Print Barrel Back Accent Lounge Chair

By Maitland Smith

Located in Chicago, IL

Vintage Baroque Safari Print Barrel Back Accent Lounge Chair This Maitland Smith style lounge

Category

Mid-20th Century American Rustic Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood, Paint

Barrel Back Striped Upholstery Swivel Lounge Chair Milo Baughman

$2,200

Barrel Back Striped Upholstery Swivel Lounge Chair Milo Baughman

By Thayer Coggin, Milo Baughman

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Milo Baughman swivel barrel back lounge chair.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Milo Baughman Barrel Back Lounge Chair by Thayer Coggin

$3,000

Milo Baughman Barrel Back Lounge Chair by Thayer Coggin

By Milo Baughman, Thayer Coggin

Located in Highland, IN

This barrel-back club chair is classic Baughman. Clean lined, elegant and comfortable, the round

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Brass

1960's Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chair

$399Sale Price|20% Off

1960's Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chair

By Edward Wormley

Located in Burbank, CA

Vintage barrel-back Mid-Century Modern club chair for sale. Very solidly built, and very

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Wood

Pair of Barrel Back Lounge Chairs Att. to Widdicomb

$3,600 / set

Pair of Barrel Back Lounge Chairs Att. to Widdicomb

By John Widdicomb, Kipp Stewart

Located in New York, NY

Chic, sophisticated pair of barrel back lounge chairs attributed to Widdicomb, in the style of Kipp

Category

Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Fully Restored Mid-Century Modern Barrel Backed Club Chairs

$2,950Sale Price / set|26% Off

Fully Restored Mid-Century Modern Barrel Backed Club Chairs

Located in Bronx, NY

Fully restored Mid-Century Modern barrel backed club chairs. The feet are original with self

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Club Chairs

Materials

Cotton

Pair of Vintage Modern Barrel Back Swivel Club Chairs

$2,550 / set

Pair of Vintage Modern Barrel Back Swivel Club Chairs

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This unique pair of Mid-Century club chairs feature swivel bases and comfortable barrel back seats

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Transitional Barrel Back Dining Chair Made to Order

$1,725 / item

Transitional Barrel Back Dining Chair Made to Order

By Jhon Ortiz, The Tailored Home

Located in Greenwich, CT

Made to order transitional style barrel back dining chair with wings and arms and made with solid

Category

2010s American Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Linen

Mid Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chairs Newly Reupholstered - Pair

$4,500 / set

Mid Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chairs Newly Reupholstered - Pair

Located in Chicago, IL

Mid Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chairs Newly Reupholstered in Designer Textured Embossed

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Suede

A Pair of Barrel-Back Art Deco Lounge Chairs

$9,800 / set

A Pair of Barrel-Back Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Located in Chicago, IL

. These chairs were made in the 1960s, most likely for a high government official. The lightly-polished

Category

Late 20th Century Hungarian Lounge Chairs

Materials

Beech

1940s French Toile Barrel Back Cane Blue White Chair

$1,750

1940s French Toile Barrel Back Cane Blue White Chair

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Transport yourself back to the sleek and sophisticated 1949s with this exquisite blue and white

Category

Vintage 1940s French French Provincial Club Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Cane, Wood

MCM Barrel Back Club Chairs by Kroehler Newly Reupholstered - Pair

$4,995 / set

MCM Barrel Back Club Chairs by Kroehler Newly Reupholstered - Pair

Located in Chicago, IL

Mid Century Modern Barrel Back Club Chairs by Kroehler Newly Reupholstered in Italian Steel Black

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Mohair

Ficks Reed Style Bamboo Rattan Barrel Back Lounge Chair MINT

$2,200

Ficks Reed Style Bamboo Rattan Barrel Back Lounge Chair MINT

By Ficks Reed

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Ficks Reed Style Bamboo Rattan Barrel Back Lounge Chair MINT

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Rattan, Bamboo

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

$2,300 / set

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This gorgeous pair of vintage modern lounge chairs feature two overstuffed removable cushions and

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Stylish Set of Four Wrought Iron Barrel-back Curule-form Chairs

$11,080Sale Price / set|20% Off

Stylish Set of Four Wrought Iron Barrel-back Curule-form Chairs

Located in San Francisco, CA

each with dramatic incurved openwork back sloping to upright teminals capped with giltwood spheres

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Wrought Iron

Vintage Italian Cream Lacquer Barrel Back Occasional Chair by Tonon

$1,950

Vintage Italian Cream Lacquer Barrel Back Occasional Chair by Tonon

By Tonon

Located in Chicago, IL

Vintage Italian Refinished Cream Lacquer Barrel Back Occasional Chair Tonon Style Reupholstered in

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Cowhide, Upholstery, Lacquer

Le Jeune Upholstery Gino Barrel Back Club Chair Showroom Model

$700

Le Jeune Upholstery Gino Barrel Back Club Chair Showroom Model

By Iconic Design Gallery

Located in Miami, FL

Le Jeune Upholstery Gino Barrel Back Club Chair Showroom Model Offered for sale is a Le Jeune

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Club Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Hardwood, Walnut

Billy Haines Mid Century Fruitwood Barrel Back Lounge Chairs - Pair

$6,347 / set

Billy Haines Mid Century Fruitwood Barrel Back Lounge Chairs - Pair

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Billy Haines Mid Century Fruitwood Barrel Back Lounge Chairs - Pair Each lounge chair measures

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Fruitwood

Handsome Pair Harvey Probber style Tufted Barrel Back Lounge Chair

$2,760Sale Price / set|20% Off

Handsome Pair Harvey Probber style Tufted Barrel Back Lounge Chair

By Harvey Probber

Located in Pemberton, NJ

textured fabric in presentable condition. These classic barrel back tufted chairs are very comfortable and

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

ANTIQUE PLAIL BROTHERS Even Arm, High Back Barrel Chair - Stickley era - W4844

$3,992Sale Price|20% Off

ANTIQUE PLAIL BROTHERS Even Arm, High Back Barrel Chair - Stickley era - W4844

Located in Shamokin Dam, PA

This is a great looking barrel chair from Plail Brothers made in c. 1910. Plail made all kinds of

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Chairs

Materials

Leather, Oak

Antique French Mahogany Barrel Back Desk Chair

$3,500

Antique French Mahogany Barrel Back Desk Chair

Located in New Orleans, LA

A pleasing chair with its navy and blue stars upholstery.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Mid-Century Modern Green Ruched Barrel Back Swivel Chairs, Pair

$16,250

Mid-Century Modern Green Ruched Barrel Back Swivel Chairs, Pair

Located in Dallas, TX

green colored velvet, these wide and accommodating barrel chairs with rounded backs that encapsulates

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Lovely Pair Milo Baughman style Barrel Back Swivel Rocker Chairs Mid-Century

$3,080Sale Price / set|20% Off

Lovely Pair Milo Baughman style Barrel Back Swivel Rocker Chairs Mid-Century

By Milo Baughman

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Lovely pair of tufted barrel back swivel rockers in the style of Milo Baughman. These chairs are

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Metal

Four Italian Silver Leaf Decorated Carved Frames Rounded Barrel Back Shape Chair

$3,000 / set

Four Italian Silver Leaf Decorated Carved Frames Rounded Barrel Back Shape Chair

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Set of 4 Mid-Century Modern silver leaf decorated barrel rounded back tufted black upholstery side

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Hardwood

Stunning Pair Chinoiserie Barrel Back Rosewood Chairs Jack Lenor Larsen

$4,600Sale Price / set|20% Off

Stunning Pair Chinoiserie Barrel Back Rosewood Chairs Jack Lenor Larsen

By Jack Lenor Larsen

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Stunning pair of barrel back Chinoiserie rosewood lounge chairs. These Fine chairs are upholstered

Category

Vintage 1970s Chinese Chinoiserie Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Rosewood

Stunning Pair Chinoiserie Barrel Back Rosewood Lounge Chairs Mid-Century

$4,600Sale Price / set|20% Off

Stunning Pair Chinoiserie Barrel Back Rosewood Lounge Chairs Mid-Century

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Stunning pair of barrel back Chinoiserie rosewood lounge chairs. These Fine chairs are upholstered

Category

Vintage 1970s Chinese Chinoiserie Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Rosewood

Mid-Century Danish Modern Finn Andersen Barrel Back Club Chair

$3,995

Mid-Century Danish Modern Finn Andersen Barrel Back Club Chair

By Selig

Located in Wilmington, DE

Mid-Century Danish Modern Finn Andersen barrel back club chair Offered is a vintage mid-century

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Mid-Century Danish Modern Finn Andersen Barrel Back Club Chair

$3,995

Mid-Century Danish Modern Finn Andersen Barrel Back Club Chair

By Selig

Located in Wilmington, DE

Mid-century Danish modern barrel back club chair Offered is a vintage mid-century Danish modern

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Green Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

$9,900 / set

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Green Barrel Back Lounge Chairs

Located in Dallas, TX

A fabulous pair of Mid-Century Modern barrel back club/lounge chairs, dating from the 1970's

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Velvet

Twisted Washed White Rattan Coastal Style Barrel Back Lounge Chair

$410

Twisted Washed White Rattan Coastal Style Barrel Back Lounge Chair

Located in Miami, FL

Gorgeous Late 20th century Twisted Rattan Coastal / Bohemian style Barrel back lounge chair with

Category

1990s Bohemian Lounge Chairs

Materials

Wicker, Rattan

Set of Four McGuire Rattan Barrel Back Dining Chairs

$4,800 / set

Set of Four McGuire Rattan Barrel Back Dining Chairs

By McGuire

Located in Rio Vista, CA

McGuire. The chairs feature gorgeous pole bent rattan frames in a barrel back form with a lovely honey

Category

20th Century American Organic Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Leather, Fabric, Rattan

Pair of Metropolitan Barrel Back Lounge Chairs, Mid-Century Modern

$6,500 / set

Pair of Metropolitan Barrel Back Lounge Chairs, Mid-Century Modern

By Jules Heumann, Metropolitan

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Fabulous pair of Metropolitan wide seat barrel back lounge chairs designed by Jules Heumann. These

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Pair of Barrel Back Chrome Lounge Chairs, Mid-Century Modern

$6,500 / set

Pair of Barrel Back Chrome Lounge Chairs, Mid-Century Modern

By Flair

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Stunning pair of barrel back chrome flat bar lounge chairs. These chairs are in vintage condition

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Solid Birch Barrel Back Bent Wood Spindle Back Armchair Desk Chair

$2,200

Solid Birch Barrel Back Bent Wood Spindle Back Armchair Desk Chair

By Paul McCobb

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Mid-Century Modern solid birch dining desk armchair attributed to Paul McCobb. Nice complement to George Nakashima decor.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Birch

Antique Leather Barrel Back Wing Armchair

$4,427

Antique Leather Barrel Back Wing Armchair

Located in London, GB

An outstanding antique leather barrel back wing armchair. This was made in England, it dates from

Category

Vintage 1920s British Georgian Wingback Chairs

Materials

Leather, Wood

Barrel Back Lounge Chairs in the Style of Milo Baughman

$3,800 / set

Barrel Back Lounge Chairs in the Style of Milo Baughman

By Milo Baughman

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pair of modern low profile lounge chairs with rounded tufted backs and square tube aluminum legs

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

1980s Vintage Upholstered Swivel Barrel Back Club Chairs, Pair, Original Fabric

$1,280 / set

1980s Vintage Upholstered Swivel Barrel Back Club Chairs, Pair, Original Fabric

Located in Miami, FL

1980s Vintage Upholstered Swivel Barrel Back Club Chairs, Pair with Original Fabric Offered for

Category

Vintage 1980s Swivel Chairs

Materials

Fabric

Handsome Lawrence Peabody Barrel Back Tub Chair Selig, Mid-Century Modern

$3,600

Handsome Lawrence Peabody Barrel Back Tub Chair Selig, Mid-Century Modern

By Lawrence Peabody

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Handsome Lawrence Peabody barrel back tub chair. We love the large-scale wide flair arms with the

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

Pair of Classic Barrel-Back Club Chairs in Ikat Upholstery

$3,000Sale Price / set|20% Off

Pair of Classic Barrel-Back Club Chairs in Ikat Upholstery

Located in Chicago, IL

. Loose seat cushion, and button accented back with nice single welt detailing. A third chair is available.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

Fabulous Coastal Modern Pair Betty Cobonpue Barrel Back Wicker Lounge Chairs

$6,250

Fabulous Coastal Modern Pair Betty Cobonpue Barrel Back Wicker Lounge Chairs

By Betty Cobonpue

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Fabulous Coastal Modern pair of signed Betty Cobonpue wicker barrel back lounge chairs. These are

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Wicker, Wood

Harvey Probber Hoop Barrel Back Cane Lounge Chairs / Edward Wormley Dunbar

$12,500 / set

Harvey Probber Hoop Barrel Back Cane Lounge Chairs / Edward Wormley Dunbar

By Harvey Probber, Paul McCobb

Located in Chicago, IL

Pair of Harvey Probber Hoop Barrel Back Cane Lounge Chairs Wear to original finish. Cane in nice

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Cane

Hollywood Regency Italian Brass Barrel Back Lounge Chair by Mastercraft

$2,900

Hollywood Regency Italian Brass Barrel Back Lounge Chair by Mastercraft

By Mastercraft

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A Classic well built asian inspired lounge chair produced by Mastercraft in the early 1970s. It

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Hollywood Regency Lounge Chairs

Materials

Brass

Milo Baughman / Harvey Probber Gliding & Swivel Barrel Back Club Chairs

$9,950 / set

Milo Baughman / Harvey Probber Gliding & Swivel Barrel Back Club Chairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in Chicago, IL

Very well crafted club chairs attributed to Milo Baughman or Harvey Probber. In the manner of

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

French Art Deco Desk and Chair Set

$10,517 / set

French Art Deco Desk and Chair Set

Located in Isle Sur La Sorgue, Vaucluse

has three front drawers and two sets of shelves on either side, behind curved front doors. Barrel-back

Category

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Pair of Mid-Century Barrel Back Swivel Lounge Chairs by Selig

$2,500 / set

Pair of Mid-Century Barrel Back Swivel Lounge Chairs by Selig

By Selig

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This comfortable pair of swivel style lounge chairs by Selig make a stylish addition to any setting

Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Antique Italian Regency Distressed Carved Walnut Barrel Back Club Chairs - Pair

$2,500 / set

Antique Italian Regency Distressed Carved Walnut Barrel Back Club Chairs - Pair

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Antique Italian Regency Distressed Carved Walnut Barrel Back Club Chairs - a Pair. Item features

Category

Antique Early 1900s Regency Lounge Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Handsome Harvey Probber style Swivel Barrel Back Lounge Chairs Mid-Century

$4,400Sale Price / set|20% Off

Handsome Harvey Probber style Swivel Barrel Back Lounge Chairs Mid-Century

By Harvey Probber

Located in Pemberton, NJ

Gorgeous pair of Harvey Probber style swivel Barrel back lounge chairs. These chairs retain

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Swivel Club Chairs or Lounge Chairs Walnut Base

$4,500 / set

Mid-Century Modern Barrel Back Swivel Club Chairs or Lounge Chairs Walnut Base

By Milo Baughman

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A super comfy matching pair of barrel back lounge chairs circa 1960's. These feature swiveling

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Walnut

Antique Late Victorian Carved Quartersawn Oak Barrel Back Rocking Chair Rocker

$900

Antique Late Victorian Carved Quartersawn Oak Barrel Back Rocking Chair Rocker

Located in Dayton, OH

. The chair has a barrel back form with turned spindle supports. Features a contoured seat and turned

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Late Victorian Rocking Chairs

Materials

Oak

Seating Under $2,000

Antique and Vintage Seating

20th Century Seating

Wood Seating

North American Seating

Seating on Sale

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Barrel Back Chair For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal barrel back chair for your home. Frequently made of fabric, wood and upholstery, every barrel back chair was constructed with great care. Find 860 options for an antique or vintage barrel back chair now, or shop our selection of 16 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer barrel back chair, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A barrel back chair is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Mid-Century Modern, Modern and Hollywood Regency styles are sought with frequency. Many designers have produced at least one well-made barrel back chair over the years, but those crafted by Milo Baughman, Thayer Coggin and Selig are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Barrel Back Chair?

A barrel back chair can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $3,800, while the lowest priced sells for $275 and the highest can go for as much as $22,500.

Finding the Right Seating for You

With entire areas of our homes reserved for “sitting rooms,” the value of quality antique and vintage seating cannot be overstated.

Fortunately, the design of side chairs, armchairs and other lounge furniture — since what were, quite literally, the early perches of our ancestors — has evolved considerably.

Among the earliest standard seating furniture were stools. Egyptian stools, for example, designed for one person with no seat back, were x-shaped and typically folded to be tucked away. These rudimentary chairs informed the design of Greek and Roman stools, all of which were a long way from Sori Yanagi's Butterfly stool or Alvar Aalto's Stool 60. In the 18th century and earlier, seats with backs and armrests were largely reserved for high nobility.

The seating of today is more inclusive but the style and placement of chairs can still make a statement. Antique desk chairs and armchairs designed in the style of Louis XV, which eventually included painted furniture and were often made of rare woods, feature prominently curved legs as well as Chinese themes and varied ornaments. Much like the thrones of fairy tales and the regency, elegant lounges crafted in the Louis XV style convey wealth and prestige. In the kitchen, the dining chair placed at the head of the table is typically reserved for the head of the household or a revered guest.

Of course, with luxurious vintage or antique furnishings, every chair can seem like the best seat in the house. Whether your preference is stretching out on a plush sofa, such as the Serpentine, designed by Vladimir Kagan, or cozying up in a vintage wingback chair, there is likely to be a comfy classic or contemporary gem for you on 1stDibs.

With respect to the latest obsessions in design, cane seating has been cropping up everywhere, from sleek armchairs to lounge chairs, while bouclé fabric, a staple of modern furniture design, can be seen in mid-century modern, Scandinavian modern and Hollywood Regency furniture styles.

Admirers of the sophisticated craftsmanship and dark woods frequently associated with mid-century modern seating can find timeless furnishings in our expansive collection of lounge chairs, dining chairs and other items — whether they’re vintage editions or alluring official reproductions of iconic designs from the likes of Hans Wegner or from Charles and Ray Eames. Shop our inventory of Egg chairs, designed in 1958 by Arne Jacobsen, the Florence Knoll lounge chair and more.

No matter your style, the collection of unique chairs, sofas and other seating on 1stDibs is surely worthy of a standing ovation.

Questions About Barrel Back Chair

How do I reupholster a barrel back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Reupholster a barrel back chair by first removing the old upholstery from the chair. Use the old pieces of material as a guide to help you cut the new upholstery into properly sized pieces. Reupholster the chair by using a furniture stapler to re-secure the new upholstery in the same manner that the old upholstery was attached. Shop a range of vintage and contemporary barrel back chairs on 1stDibs.
What are barrel chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 16, 2019
Barrel chairs have high, semicircular backs which form a single piece with the arms.
What is a barrel chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Barrel chairs are accent chairs that feature a curved back shaped like half of a barrel. In some cases, the back slopes down at the sides to form arms. Other pieces are armless or have separate rolled arms at the sides. You'll find a variety of barrel chairs on 1stDibs.
Who invented the barrel chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
No one knows who invented the barrel chair originally, or even where the chairs appeared first. They became popular during the mid to late 19th century, but it was Frank Lloyd Wright who made them famous when he designed an iconic version for Wingspread, a home he designed in Wind Point, Wisconsin. Wright also used his Taliesin Barrel chair to furnish his own home in Wisconsin. Shop a selection of barrel chairs on 1stDibs.
What era are barrel chairs from?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
The earliest barrel chairs are from is the era of the early 19th century. However, Frank Lloyd Wright created one of the most famous barrel chairs in 1937 as a part of his design for Wingspread, a home in Wind Point, Wisconsin. On 1stDibs, find a collection of barrel chairs.
What is a Windsor back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
A Windsor back chair is a solid wooden chair with an arched spindle back. Most designs have curved arms positioned on angled stands and carved legs connected by a cross stretcher. The chair gets its name from the English city of Windsor, where the chairs were first made in the 18th century. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Windsor back chairs.
What is the back of a chair called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 15, 2024
The back of a chair is called a chair back. In some cases, you may see people use modifiers to describe the styles of chair backs. For example, a chair with two crisscrossing cross rails is an X-back or cross back, while a chair with a series of horizontal cross rails positioned parallel to one another is a ladder back. Explore a wide range of chairs on 1stDibs.
What is a splat back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
A splat back chair is a chair with a vertical central element on its back. Splat back chairs have more of a formal feel to them compared to other types of chairs and seating. Splat back Windsor chairs are popular on 1stDibs.
What is a yoke back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yoke back chairs are those that feature a curved top rail and a single central splat. The style of chair originated in China during the 10th century and was a common feature in Chinese homes by the 12th century. On 1stDibs, shop a range of yoke back chairs.
What is a bow back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A bow back chair refers to a silhouette of a chair with a curved back and is usually made with high-quality wood. Bow back chairs were popular during the colonial period and are representative of American-Amish heritage. Browse a range of vintage bow back chairs on 1stDibs.
What is a channel back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A channel back chair is a chair that features deep channels in the upholstery along the back. These can create a seashell-like effect. This kind of back may also be called a fluted back. On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage and new channel back chairs.
What is a lyre back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A lyre back chair is a type of furniture used for seating that originated during the early 18th century. It features a square back embellished with wood shaped like a lyre, an ancient stringed musical instrument. On 1stDibs, find a variety of lyre back chairs.
What is a low back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
A low-back chair is designed to provide lumbar support to the lower back and mid-back. These chairs have a small backrest that reaches till the middle of one's back. Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary low back chairs from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
What is a balloon back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A balloon back chair is a specific type of seat that became popular during the Victorian era. It features a curved back that tapers as it travels down to the seat. Many balloon back chairs are armless, and nearly all examples feature upholstered seats. You'll find a range of balloon back chairs on 1stDibs.
What is a sling back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
A sling chair is usually made up of a framework connected by ropes or fabric hanging between the poles or frame. This design results in a structure quite similar to a sling stretcher.
What is a spoon back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A spoon back chair is an accent chair that features a deep curved back that forms arms along the sides of the furniture by sloping downward. Most spoon back chairs have wooden backs and upholstered seats. Find a variety of spoon back chairs on 1stDibs.
What is a comb back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A comb back chair is a style of chair featuring a back resembling a comb. Comb back chairs are also known as Windsor chairs and are typically crafted with a cage-like backing. Shop a selection of comb back chairs on 1stDibs.
What are rounded back chairs called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Countless chair styles have incorporated rounded backs over the centuries, including the famous club chair. Some interior designers favor round-back chairs for their sleek curvatures. Shop a collection of rounded back chairs from some of the world’s top sellers Oon 1stDibs.
What is a high back office chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A high back office chair has a tall backrest to provide support to both your back and neck. It helps minimize the risk of chronic neck and back problems. These chairs also come with wheels attached for ease of mobility. Shop a range of antique and vintage high back office chairs on 1stDibs.
When were cane back chairs popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
While cane back chairs have been made around the globe for thousands of years, it was in the 1970s that this style took the world by storm and became a must for many households. It’s the organic, natural look of a cane back chair that made it so desirable and that makes it a modern furniture element as well, with its tropical vibe and vacation attitude. Shop a collection of cane back chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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