What is a captain's chair?

A captain's chair is an armchair with a saddle seat and low curved back, usually upholstered in leather or cloth. It has vertical spindles that create the appearance of extra height for more formal settings. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage chairs.

What is a captain’s chair for?

Today, a captain's chair is typically used for providing seating at a kitchen or dining table. The name of the chair comes from the fact that furniture of this type once provided seating for a ship's officers in lounge areas. Shop a large collection of captain's chairs on 1stDibs.

Why are they called captain’s chairs?

Captain’s chairs are called that because early versions of the armchairs were used aboard boats to provide seating for high-ranking officers. These chairs date back to the 19th century and usually featured all-wood construction. Find a selection of antique and vintage captain's chairs on 1stDibs.

What is a dining chair?

A dining chair is a chair used to provide seating while dining at a table. There are two main types: side chairs and armchairs. As the name suggests, armchairs feature integrated arms, and they typically go along the short ends of rectangular tables. Free of arms, side chairs are usually arranged along the sides of rectangular tables. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of dining chairs.

What is a carver dining chair?

A carver dining chair is a kind of spool chair with legs rising above the seat level to frame the back and support the armrests. A theory about how carver chairs got their name is that the “master of the household” would sit at the head of the dining table and carve the meat that would be served for dinner. A widely reported origin story for the carver chair is that the name references a Pilgrim named John Carver, who was the founder of the Plymouth colony of Massachusetts in the United States. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage carver chairs.

How tall should dining chairs be?

Dining chairs should be around 18 inches tall. Since most dining tables are 30 inches high, 18 inch tall dining chairs allow for a comfortable amount of legroom. As a general rule of thumb, there should be around 12 inches between a dining table and a seat.

What is the difference between dining chairs and accent chairs?

The difference between dining chairs and accent chairs is primarily their function. Generally, dining chairs are used in dining areas, where they provide comfortable seating for people to use while eating at tables. You'll normally find accent chairs in seating areas and other parts of the home, where users can sit on them while they read, make conversation or enjoy other relaxing activities. Shop a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.

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

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.

What is a dining chair with arms called?

A dining chair with arms is called a carver chair or elbow chair. It is a traditional dining chair with arms added to it for a more structured look and is a popular option for dining seats for a spot to comfortably rest your arms. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

What is a dining room chair called?

A dining room chair is called a dining chair. However, depending on its style, you may also see a dining chair referred to by other names. Armless ones placed along the long sides of rectangular and oval tables are side chairs, while the chairs with arms that often go at the heads of tables are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.

Are leather dining chairs worth it?

Many furniture lovers feel that leather dining chairs are worth it. Due to its natural beauty, leather can elevate dining rooms and add interest to interior designs by bringing in a new texture. Leather is also fairly easy to wipe clean, and top-grain and full-grain upholstery often hold up well to the effects of frequent use. Keep in mind that other factors contribute to the overall quality of a chair, such as its frame materials and construction methods. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of leather dining chairs.

Do chairs have to match the dining table?

Dining room chairs and dining tables do not necessarily have to match.

Is it worth recovering dining chairs?

Yes, it may be worth recovering dining chairs. If the upholstery on your chairs is worn or stained, but the frames are in good condition, recovering them can restore their appearance and allow you to continue using your furniture for more years. However, there may be some downsides to recovering. Sometimes, the material and labor costs may be more than what you might pay for new chairs. Recovering some vintage or antique dining chairs may also diminish their value. If your chairs are vintage or antique, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or antique dealer to learn about the potential impact of replacing the fabric before you proceed with the recovery process. It is also a good idea to get estimates from a few professional furniture repairers to see how much the project will cost. Shop a large collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

What are the chairs at a dining table called?

The chairs at a dining table are generally just called dining chairs. Chairs without arms that go along the sides of a table are side chairs. Typically positioned at the ends of tables, dining chairs framed by arms are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.

Is leather good for dining chairs?

Whether leather is good for dining chairs is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find leather to be easy to wipe clean and appreciate its texture and appearance. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of leather dining chairs.

How can you tell if a dining chair is antique?

To tell if a dining chair is antique, first look for markings that can help you identify the maker. You will normally find these under the seat. By using information published on trusted online resources, you can research the markings to learn who made the chair and when the maker was active. Any dining chair made 100 years ago or earlier is an antique. Another way to identify antique chairs is to examine their details closely. Most antique dining chairs are handmade, so you can expect to see subtle tool markings and slight irregularities. A lack of these characteristics may indicate that a dining chair is machine-made and less likely to be an antique. For assistance with dating your dining chairs, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of antique dining chairs.

What are the head dining chairs called?

What the head dining chairs are called varies. With many dining room sets, the chairs designed to go at the heads or ends of the tables are flanked by arms. As a result, people often refer to them as dining armchairs or dining end chairs. If the chairs lack arms, they're usually described as end chairs. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of dining chairs.

Should dining room chairs have arms?

Dining room chairs with arms require more space than armless ones.

What is a good width for a dining chair?

A good width for a dining chair is generally considered to be 16 to 20 inches. Chairs within this size range typically provide enough space for most people to sit comfortably. Shop a collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Why are dining chairs with arms called carvers?

No one knows for sure why some dining chairs with arms are called carvers. However, it likely relates to the historical use of these chairs. Technically, carver is the nickname for a specific type of dining chair with arms, not for all dining armchairs. A Colonial American design, a carver chair features a backrest that wraps around the sides and forms arms. Traditionally, the carver chair went at the head of the table, and often the family member responsible for carving the primary entrée sat at this place. As a result, the chair's purpose for seating the carver of the meal is one potential explanation for the nickname. Another is that the name comes from John Carver, the governor of the Plymouth Colony. Reportedly, Carver owned one of these chairs, and people began referring to them by his name as a result. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of carver chairs.

Dining Captain Chairs

Regency Walnut Chairs

Captains Bar

Queening Chair

Henkel Harris Queen Anne Chairs

Seat Height 20

Captains Armchair

Materials

Upholstery, Mahogany

Georgian Carved Mahogany Armchair

$695

Georgian Carved Mahogany Armchair

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous Georgian or Chippendale style armchair or dining captain chair USA, Late 20th Century Carved mahogany frame, with upholstered seat.

Category

Late 20th Century American Georgian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Mahogany

$1,137Sale Price / set|50% Off

Pair Dunbar Captains Arm Chairs by Roger Sprunger

By Roger Sprunger, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Fraser, MI

Pair Dunbar armchairs designed by Roger Sprunger.

Category

Vintage 1970s Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Materials

Upholstery, Hardwood

set of 8 windsor captain's chairs

Unavailable

H 28 in W 21 in D 20 in

set of 8 windsor captain's chairs

Located in New York, NY

rare set of 8 windsor captain's chairs in old painted finish.

Category

Antique 19th Century American Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Fjoon Captain's Chair/Occasional Chair Leather/Walnut by Fernweh Woodworking

Unavailable

H 31 in W 19 in D 21 in

Fjoon Captain's Chair/Occasional Chair Leather/Walnut by Fernweh Woodworking

By Fernweh Woodworking

Located in Bend, OR

My musings led me to include what are now a few of my favorite aspects of fjoon. With the fjoon captain's chair we wanted to add robust curvature with an arm that would elevate the...

Category

2010s American Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Set of 6 English Captain's Chairs, circa 1860

Unavailable

H 32 in W 27 in D 22 in

Set of 6 English Captain's Chairs, circa 1860

Located in San Francisco, CA

Set of 6 English captain's chairs, circa 1860, mix of elm and oak, wonderfully turned legs and supports.

Category

Antique 19th Century English Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Elm, Oak

Set of Six Milo Baughman Dining Chairs

Unavailable

H 36.75 in W 27 in D 23.5 in

Set of Six Milo Baughman Dining Chairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in Nashville, TN

Four dining chairs and two captain's chairs by Milo Baughman for Directional.

Category

20th Century American Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Set of Six Argentine Art Moderne Dining Chairs, circa 1940

Unavailable

H 36 in W 20 in D 22 in

Set of Six Argentine Art Moderne Dining Chairs, circa 1940

Located in Richmond, VA

Set of six Argentine art moderne dining chairs, circa 1940. Two captains chairs and four side chairs.

Materials

Fabric, Glass, Walnut

Federal Mahogany Armchairs or Dining Captain Chairs, Pair

Sold

H 39 in W 23.75 in D 22.5 in

Federal Mahogany Armchairs or Dining Captain Chairs, Pair

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous pair of Federal or Hepplewhite style shield back arm chairs or dining captain chairs USA, Circa 1970s Solid carved mahogany frames, with upholstered seats.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Federal Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Mahogany

$1,395

$2,280

H 48.5 in W 32 in D 30 in

Mid 1800's French Regency Upholstered Chair with Ornately Carved Arms, Legs

Located in Louisville, KY

This stunning high-back French Regency chair boasts all the beautiful detail one would come to expect from this era. From the hand carved ornamentals on the arms and uprights, to the...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Regency Chairs

Materials

Materials

Brass

Chippendale Style Mahogany Ball and Claw Dining Chairs by Henry Link - Set of 6

Unavailable|~~$1,650 / set~~

H 40.5 in W 22 in D 24.5 in

Chippendale Style Mahogany Ball and Claw Dining Chairs by Henry Link - Set of 6

By Henry Link

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage Chippendale Style Mahogany Ball and Claw Dining Chairs by Henry Link - Set of 6. Item features (2) Armchairs, (4) Side chairs, original label, quality American craftsmanship....

Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Chippendale Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Set Chippendale Dining Chairs Mahogany 8

$3,313 / set

H 37 in W 21 in D 21 in

Set Chippendale Dining Chairs Mahogany 8

Located in Potters Bar, GB

These wonderful chairs are raised upon typical cabriole front legs with carved acanthus leaves to the knees. Circa 1920 The back legs being of a sabre form. The drop in seats having ...

Category

Vintage 1920s Chippendale Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

15 1/2' Long Yew Wood Breakfront

$168,000 / item

H 95.5 in W 186 in D 17 in

15 1/2' Long Yew Wood Breakfront

Located in Harrodsburg, KY

An extremely long bookcase of double-breakfronted form. Rare for the use of exceedingly figured burr yew wood veneers throughout. The astragals of the 12-pane glazed doors are fashio...

Category

Antique 18th Century English George III Bookcases

Materials

Glass, Yew

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Dining Captain Chairs For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of dining captain chairs is available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, fabric and hardwood, all dining captain chairs available were constructed with great care. Dining captain chairs have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. There are many kinds of dining captain chairs to choose from, but at 1stDibs, Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Modern dining captain chairs are of considerable interest. Many dining captain chairs are appealing in their simplicity, but George Nakashima, Erik Buch and Conant Ball produced popular dining captain chairs that are worth a look.

How Much are Dining Captain Chairs?

Dining captain chairs can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $4,200, while the lowest priced sells for $700 and the highest can go for as much as $49,900.

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 Dining Captain Chairs

What is a captain's chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A captain's chair is an armchair with a saddle seat and low curved back, usually upholstered in leather or cloth. It has vertical spindles that create the appearance of extra height for more formal settings. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage chairs.
What is a captain’s chair for?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Today, a captain's chair is typically used for providing seating at a kitchen or dining table. The name of the chair comes from the fact that furniture of this type once provided seating for a ship's officers in lounge areas. Shop a large collection of captain's chairs on 1stDibs.
Why are they called captain’s chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Captain’s chairs are called that because early versions of the armchairs were used aboard boats to provide seating for high-ranking officers. These chairs date back to the 19th century and usually featured all-wood construction. Find a selection of antique and vintage captain's chairs on 1stDibs.
What is a dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
A dining chair is a chair used to provide seating while dining at a table. There are two main types: side chairs and armchairs. As the name suggests, armchairs feature integrated arms, and they typically go along the short ends of rectangular tables. Free of arms, side chairs are usually arranged along the sides of rectangular tables. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of dining chairs.
What is a carver dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A carver dining chair is a kind of spool chair with legs rising above the seat level to frame the back and support the armrests. A theory about how carver chairs got their name is that the “master of the household” would sit at the head of the dining table and carve the meat that would be served for dinner. A widely reported origin story for the carver chair is that the name references a Pilgrim named John Carver, who was the founder of the Plymouth colony of Massachusetts in the United States. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage carver chairs.
How tall should dining chairs be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Dining chairs should be around 18 inches tall. Since most dining tables are 30 inches high, 18 inch tall dining chairs allow for a comfortable amount of legroom. As a general rule of thumb, there should be around 12 inches between a dining table and a seat.
What is the difference between dining chairs and accent chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between dining chairs and accent chairs is primarily their function. Generally, dining chairs are used in dining areas, where they provide comfortable seating for people to use while eating at tables. You'll normally find accent chairs in seating areas and other parts of the home, where users can sit on them while they read, make conversation or enjoy other relaxing activities. Shop a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between an accent chair and a dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
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.
What is a dining chair with arms called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A dining chair with arms is called a carver chair or elbow chair. It is a traditional dining chair with arms added to it for a more structured look and is a popular option for dining seats for a spot to comfortably rest your arms. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.
What is a dining room chair called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
A dining room chair is called a dining chair. However, depending on its style, you may also see a dining chair referred to by other names. Armless ones placed along the long sides of rectangular and oval tables are side chairs, while the chairs with arms that often go at the heads of tables are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.
Are leather dining chairs worth it?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
Many furniture lovers feel that leather dining chairs are worth it. Due to its natural beauty, leather can elevate dining rooms and add interest to interior designs by bringing in a new texture. Leather is also fairly easy to wipe clean, and top-grain and full-grain upholstery often hold up well to the effects of frequent use. Keep in mind that other factors contribute to the overall quality of a chair, such as its frame materials and construction methods. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of leather dining chairs.
Do chairs have to match the dining table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Dining room chairs and dining tables do not necessarily have to match.
Is it worth recovering dining chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024
Yes, it may be worth recovering dining chairs. If the upholstery on your chairs is worn or stained, but the frames are in good condition, recovering them can restore their appearance and allow you to continue using your furniture for more years. However, there may be some downsides to recovering. Sometimes, the material and labor costs may be more than what you might pay for new chairs. Recovering some vintage or antique dining chairs may also diminish their value. If your chairs are vintage or antique, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or antique dealer to learn about the potential impact of replacing the fabric before you proceed with the recovery process. It is also a good idea to get estimates from a few professional furniture repairers to see how much the project will cost. Shop a large collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.
What are the chairs at a dining table called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
The chairs at a dining table are generally just called dining chairs. Chairs without arms that go along the sides of a table are side chairs. Typically positioned at the ends of tables, dining chairs framed by arms are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.
Is leather good for dining chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
Whether leather is good for dining chairs is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find leather to be easy to wipe clean and appreciate its texture and appearance. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of leather dining chairs.
How can you tell if a dining chair is antique?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
To tell if a dining chair is antique, first look for markings that can help you identify the maker. You will normally find these under the seat. By using information published on trusted online resources, you can research the markings to learn who made the chair and when the maker was active. Any dining chair made 100 years ago or earlier is an antique. Another way to identify antique chairs is to examine their details closely. Most antique dining chairs are handmade, so you can expect to see subtle tool markings and slight irregularities. A lack of these characteristics may indicate that a dining chair is machine-made and less likely to be an antique. For assistance with dating your dining chairs, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of antique dining chairs.
What are the head dining chairs called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
What the head dining chairs are called varies. With many dining room sets, the chairs designed to go at the heads or ends of the tables are flanked by arms. As a result, people often refer to them as dining armchairs or dining end chairs. If the chairs lack arms, they're usually described as end chairs. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of dining chairs.
Should dining room chairs have arms?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Dining room chairs with arms require more space than armless ones.
What is a good width for a dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
A good width for a dining chair is generally considered to be 16 to 20 inches. Chairs within this size range typically provide enough space for most people to sit comfortably. Shop a collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.
Why are dining chairs with arms called carvers?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
No one knows for sure why some dining chairs with arms are called carvers. However, it likely relates to the historical use of these chairs. Technically, carver is the nickname for a specific type of dining chair with arms, not for all dining armchairs. A Colonial American design, a carver chair features a backrest that wraps around the sides and forms arms. Traditionally, the carver chair went at the head of the table, and often the family member responsible for carving the primary entrée sat at this place. As a result, the chair's purpose for seating the carver of the meal is one potential explanation for the nickname. Another is that the name comes from John Carver, the governor of the Plymouth Colony. Reportedly, Carver owned one of these chairs, and people began referring to them by his name as a result. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of carver chairs.

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