What era are ladder back chairs from?

Ladder back chairs have a timeless design that was popular in several eras. Early examples date back to the Middle Ages. The wooden chairs became very popular in colonial America and England during the 17th century. Shop a range of antique and vintage ladder back chairs on 1stDibs.

What are round back chairs called?

Round back chairs are often called barrel chairs or barrel back chairs. This is because the curvy shape makes the back look similar to half of a barrel. Often, this type of chair has an upholstered seat and exposed wood legs. You'll find a selection of barrel chairs on 1stDibs.

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 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 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 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 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.

How do you upholster a channel back chair?

To upholster a channel back chair, you will need to remove the seat and back of the chair, measure for new padding and upholstery and make specialized cuts and patterns for the channels. Upholstering channel back chairs is challenging, so if you’re not experienced in upholstering furniture, it’s best to take it to someone who is. Shop a selection of upholstered channel chairs from top sellers on 1stDibs.

What era are balloon back chairs?

Balloon back chairs are from the Victorian era, which lasted from the late 1830s to the turn of the 20th century. These chairs get their name from their rounded backrests and narrow waists, which make it seem like their tops have ballooned or grown in size. On 1stDibs, shop a range of balloon back chairs.

What kind of chair is best for your back?

The best chairs to prevent lower back pain are the Steelcase lamp chair, the Humanscale Freedom chair, and the Herman Miller Aeron chair. If you're shopping for a chair that will help with lower back pain, there is a variety of chairs that will meet your needs on 1stDibs.

What are cross back chairs called?

Cross back chairs are sometimes called X-back chairs because of the crisscrossing design. However, cross back chair is a commonly used name in its own right. Since couples often rent these types of chairs for seating during wedding ceremonies, some people call cross back chairs wedding chairs. Shop an assortment of cross back chairs on 1stDibs.

Who designed the shield back chair?

Vladimir Kagan designed the Shield Back chair, which debuted in 1955. It features an upholstered back and seat. Cabinetmaker George Hepplewhite is also known for creating an all-wood shield back chair sometime during the mid-18th century. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of shield back chairs.

When were shield back chairs made?

Shield back chairs were first made during the 18th century. However, the timeless design of these dining chairs continues to appeal to many people, so many furniture makers continue to produce chairs with distinctive shield backs. Shop a variety of shield 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.

Ladder Back Chairs

Danish Brutalist

Dining Chairs By Henning Kjaernulf

New England Chair

American Wood Chair

Brutalist Oak Dining Chair

French Country Chairs

Antique Bar Back

19th Century Rush Chairs

Primitive Rustic Ladder Back Woven Rush Seat Dining Side Chairs - Set of 6

$1,600 / set

Primitive Rustic Ladder Back Woven Rush Seat Dining Side Chairs - Set of 6

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Please message us with your zip code to request a more reasonable domestic U.S. shipping quote. Primitive Rustic Ladder Back Solid Wood Dining Side Chairs with Red Distressed Stain ...

Category

Late 20th Century Rustic Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Set of Four Early American Style Mahogany Rush Seat Ladder Back Side Chairs

$1,595

Set of Four Early American Style Mahogany Rush Seat Ladder Back Side Chairs

Located in Germantown, MD

A Set of Four Early American Style Mahogany Rush Seat Ladder Back Side Chairs. Measures: 19" in width, 15" in depth and 45.25" in height

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rush, Mahogany

Set of Six French Provincial Oak Ladder-Back Dining Chairs w/ Upholstered Seats

$3,900 / set

Set of Six French Provincial Oak Ladder-Back Dining Chairs w/ Upholstered Seats

Located in Atlanta, GA

Each chair features a unique cresting rail carved with paired volutes and scrolling terminals, above two shaped ladder-back rails with scalloped lower edges that graduate in width to...

Category

Early 20th Century French French Provincial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Oak

Limbert Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Dining Chairs, Set of Four

$2,995 / set

Limbert Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Dining Chairs, Set of Four

By Charles Limbert

Located in South Bend, IN

A beautiful set of four antique Mission or Arts & Crafts ladder back dining chairs By Charles P. Limbert Co.

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Leather, Oak

Set 6 Country French Ladder Cane Back Pegged Frames New Upholstery Dining Chairs

$6,000 / set

Set 6 Country French Ladder Cane Back Pegged Frames New Upholstery Dining Chairs

By Henredon, Baker Furniture Company, Drexel, Tomlinson

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Set 6 Country French Tall Ladder Cane Back Pegged Frames New Upholstery Dining Chairs MINT!

Category

20th Century American Country Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Hardwood, Walnut

Gio Ponti style Ebonized ladder back rush seat side or desk chair with ball feet

$678

Gio Ponti style Ebonized ladder back rush seat side or desk chair with ball feet

By Gio Ponti

Located in London, GB

Gio Ponti. An ebonized ladder back rush seat side or desk chair with ball feet.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Rush

Mid-Century Danish Modern Ladder-Back Dining Chair with Woven Paper Cord Seat

$495

Mid-Century Danish Modern Ladder-Back Dining Chair with Woven Paper Cord Seat

Located in Seattle, WA

This mid-century Danish modern dining chair features a wood ladder-back frame paired with a woven paper cord seat in a classic basket-weave pattern.

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Papercord, Wood

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Dining Chairs

$3,995 / set

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Dining Chairs

By L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional set of four antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period ladder back dining chairs By L. & J.G. Stickley USA, Circa 1900 Solid quarter sawn oak frames, with upholstered ...

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Dining Chairs

$5,500 / set

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Dining Chairs

By L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional set of five antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period ladder back dining chairs By L. & J.G. Stickley USA, Circa 1900 Solid quarter sawn oak frames, with upholstered ...

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

Set Six French Provinical Partial Gilt And Ebonized Slat Ladder Back Side Chairs

$5,995 / set

Set Six French Provinical Partial Gilt And Ebonized Slat Ladder Back Side Chairs

Located in Germantown, MD

A magnificent Set of Six French Provinical style skillfully Partial Gilt And crackled Ebonized Slat Ladder high Back Side Chairs with Custom upholstery.

Category

Early 20th Century American French Provincial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Hardwood, Giltwood, Paint

19th C. Georgian Set of 4 Pierced Ladder Back Leather Upholstered Dining Chairs

$3,995

19th C. Georgian Set of 4 Pierced Ladder Back Leather Upholstered Dining Chairs

Located in Germantown, MD

Late 19th century English Georgian set of 4 ladder back dining chairs, shaped and pierced cresting and back rails, suede leather upholstered seat cushion above square fluted front su...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Northern Irish Georgian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Leather, Suede, Mahogany

Set of four oak and leather ladder back dining chairs by Gordon Russell

$6,356

Set of four oak and leather ladder back dining chairs by Gordon Russell

By Gordon Russell

Located in Haywards Heath England, GB

Rare set of four Arts and Crafts Cotswold School ladder back dining chairs by Gordon Russell. Ash with woven leather seats.

Category

Vintage 1920s English Arts and Crafts Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Oak

Vintage Retro Set of 8 (6 + 2) Ladder-Back Dining Chairs with Wicker Seats

$1,894Sale Price / set|30% Off

Vintage Retro Set of 8 (6 + 2) Ladder-Back Dining Chairs with Wicker Seats

Located in Wisbech, England

Vintage Retro Set of 8 (6 + 2) Ladder-Back Dining Chairs – c.1970 A stylish vintage set of eight ladder-back dining chairs (6 standard chairs plus 2 carvers), dating to around 1970.

Category

Early 20th Century English Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Set of Four Elm French Country Ladder-Back Dining Chairs with Rush Seats, 1950s

$2,427 / set

Set of Four Elm French Country Ladder-Back Dining Chairs with Rush Seats, 1950s

Located in Kaštel Sućurac, HR

French rural workshop, set of four ladder-back dining chairs, solid wood and rush, France, 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s French French Provincial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rush, Elm

Set of 4 George III Ladder Back Side Chairs with Slip Seats

$3,040Sale Price / set|20% Off

Set of 4 George III Ladder Back Side Chairs with Slip Seats

Located in Huntington, NY

Covered in horse hair.

Category

Antique 19th Century English George III Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Set of Four French Rustic Ladder-Back Dining Chairs with Rush Seats, c. 1960

$1,432 / set

Set of Four French Rustic Ladder-Back Dining Chairs with Rush Seats, c. 1960

Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL

A characterful set of four French rustic dining chairs from around the 1950s or 1960s, with tall ladder backs, distinctive rounded knob finials and traditional hand-woven rush seats.

Category

Mid-20th Century French French Provincial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rush, Wood

Liberty & Co. An English Aesthetic Movement walnut ladder back rush seat chair

$2,035

Liberty & Co. An English Aesthetic Movement walnut ladder back rush seat chair

By Liberty & Co.

Located in London, GB

An elegant English Aesthetic Movement walnut ladder back side chair. The last three images are from: A Pictorial Dictionary of British 19th Century Furniture Design.

Category

Antique 1890s English Arts and Crafts Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Rush, Walnut

Set of 4 Ladder Back Dining Chairs in pine by Sven Larsson, 1970, Sweden

$2,521 / set

Set of 4 Ladder Back Dining Chairs in pine by Sven Larsson, 1970, Sweden

By Sven Larsson

Located in Göteborg, SE

Dining chairs in rustic style. Solid wood, timeless ladder-back design.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Pine

Set of 6 French Louis XIII Oak Ladder Back Dining Chairs with Leather Seats

$4,900 / set

Set of 6 French Louis XIII Oak Ladder Back Dining Chairs with Leather Seats

Located in Dallas, TX

The tall ladder-back form features three shaped and scalloped slats framed by sturdy uprights, while the base is constructed with turned front legs connected by a classic turned stre...

Category

Late 20th Century French Louis XIII Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Oak, Leather

Set of Seven 19th C French Provençal Ladder Back Walnut Rush Seat Dining Chairs

$4,500 / set

Set of Seven 19th C French Provençal Ladder Back Walnut Rush Seat Dining Chairs

Located in Southampton, NY

Set of Seven 19th C French Provençal Ladder Back Walnut Rush Seat Dining Chairs, c. 1880.

Category

Antique 19th Century French French Provincial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rush, Walnut

Set of Ten Hitchcock Ebonized Ladder back Dining Chairs With Rush Seats, 19th c.

$5,300 / set

Set of Ten Hitchcock Ebonized Ladder back Dining Chairs With Rush Seats, 19th c.

By Hitchcock

Located in Wichita, KS

A beautifully assembled set of ten Hitchcock dining chairs, crafted in ebonized hardwood with handwoven rush seats and the signature stenciled pierced splat that has made Hitchcock f...

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American American Classical Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rush, Wood, Paint

Pair of Chippendale Style Pierced Ladder Back Mahogany and Pink Upholstered

$1,550 / set

Pair of Chippendale Style Pierced Ladder Back Mahogany and Pink Upholstered

Located in Germantown, MD

A Pair of Chippendale Style Pierced Ladder Back Mahogany and Pink Upholstered. Measure 20" in width, 21" in depth and 37" in height. Seat height 18".

Category

Mid-20th Century American Other Side Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Mahogany

Stickley Co. Shaker Type Chestnut Ladder Back Rocker , NYC Circa 1910s

$3,500

Stickley Co. Shaker Type Chestnut Ladder Back Rocker , NYC Circa 1910s

By L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.

Located in Germantown, MD

1910s Stickley Co. Chestnut Ladder Back Arm Rocker in the Shaker manner. Material Chestnut with cotton velvet upholstery.

Category

Early 20th Century American American Colonial Rocking Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Chestnut

Dutch Oak Ladder-Back Armchair with Rush Seat and Turned Finials, 1950s

$401

Dutch Oak Ladder-Back Armchair with Rush Seat and Turned Finials, 1950s

Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL

Stylistically, the chair sits comfortably alongside designs in the spirit of Charlotte Perriand, Charles Dudouyt and Pierre Chapo, and it belongs to the long tradition of Dutch, Engl...

Category

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Oak

1950's FRENCH SET OF 6 FARM COUNTRY HOUSE LADDER BACK DINING CHAIRS STRAW SEATS

$3,052 / set

1950's FRENCH SET OF 6 FARM COUNTRY HOUSE LADDER BACK DINING CHAIRS STRAW SEATS

Located in Pulborough, GB

The ladder-back form—clean-lined yet full of character— gives each chair a sculptural presence.

Category

20th Century French Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Straw, Oak

Pair of Mid-Century Walnut Ladder Back Armchairs with Horned Accent

$1,600 / set

Pair of Mid-Century Walnut Ladder Back Armchairs with Horned Accent

By Niels Koefoed

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This pair of two ladder back dining chairs are crafted of walnut and a subtly patterned fabric seat.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Walnut

A Good Set of 5 Wavy Ladder Back Dining Chairs This is a very attractive set

$1,356

A Good Set of 5 Wavy Ladder Back Dining Chairs This is a very attractive set

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

A Good Set of 5 Wavy Ladder Back Dining Chairs This is a very attractive set of Dining chairs with a wavy ladder back, the set has 1 Carver and 4 single chairs, they are upholstered...

Category

Vintage 1960s Country Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Beech

Lovely Suite of Six circa 1860 Dutch Ladder Back Oak Rush Seat Dining Chairs 6

$3,731 / set

Lovely Suite of Six circa 1860 Dutch Ladder Back Oak Rush Seat Dining Chairs 6

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

We are delighted to offer for sale this lovely suite of six original Dutch circa 1860 Ladder back rush seat dining chairs. A very good looking and well-made suite, the timber is a...

Category

Antique 1860s Danish High Victorian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rush, Oak

Pair of English Oak Ladder-Back Armchairs with Bobbin Turning and Rush Seats

$1,031 / set

Pair of English Oak Ladder-Back Armchairs with Bobbin Turning and Rush Seats

Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL

The dark oak has a rich, warm colour, and the natural rush seats add texture and a lovely contrast. Ladder-back chairs with bobbin turning go back to traditional English country fur...

Category

Vintage 1970s English Country Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Oak

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Armchair

$1,595

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Ladder Back Armchair

By L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period club chair or armchair By L. & J.G. Stickley USA, Circa 1900 Solid quarter sawn oak frame, with upholstered seat. Measures:...

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Club Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

Pair of Dutch Oak Ladder-Back Armchairs with Knob Finials and Rush Seats, 1960s

$859 / set

Pair of Dutch Oak Ladder-Back Armchairs with Knob Finials and Rush Seats, 1960s

Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL

Collectors of Dutch and English country furniture, Shaker-inspired designs and traditional ladder-back chairs will also appreciate them. Use them as head chairs at a dining table, p...

Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Rustic Armchairs

Materials

Rush, Oak

Century Furniture French Country Carved Solid Oak Ladder Back Armchairs, Pair

$1,495 / set

Century Furniture French Country Carved Solid Oak Ladder Back Armchairs, Pair

By Century Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous pair of French Country, French Provincial, or William and Mary style armchairs or dining captain chairs By Century Furniture USA, Circa 1960s Carved solid oak frames, w...

Category

Vintage 1960s American French Provincial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

Four English Oak Ladder Back Armchairs. Very comfortable, great color and patina

$950 / item

Four English Oak Ladder Back Armchairs. Very comfortable, great color and patina

Located in Buchanan, MI

Four English oak ladder back armchairs or two pairs. Lovely deep rich color.

Category

20th Century English George III Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Oak

Ernest Gimson. A pair of yew wood ladder back and bobbin turned armchairs

$3,799 / set

Ernest Gimson. A pair of yew wood ladder back and bobbin turned armchairs

By Ernest Gimson

Located in London, GB

Ernest Gimson, designer. A good quality pair of Cotswold School yew wood ladder back and bobbin-turned armchairs with rush seats.

Category

Vintage 1910s English Arts and Crafts Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Oak

Mid-Century French Beech Three-Seater Ladder-Back Bench with Rush Seat, 1960s

$1,490

Mid-Century French Beech Three-Seater Ladder-Back Bench with Rush Seat, 1960s

Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL

It takes the classic French country ladder-back chair and stretches it into a slim bench for three, and the result is a piece that feels both rural and surprisingly modern.

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Benches

Materials

Rush, Beech

Contoured Ladder Back Armchair in Teak, Torbjørn Afdal, Vamo, Denmark, c. 1960's

$1,575

Contoured Ladder Back Armchair in Teak, Torbjørn Afdal, Vamo, Denmark, c. 1960's

By Torbjørn Afdal

Located in Deland, FL

Introducing a rare ladderback armchair designed by the incomparable Torbjørn Afdal for Vamo. Designed and crafted in Denmark in the early 1960's this elegant armchair is constructed ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Teak

Mid-Century High-Back Walnut & Leather Chair, Niels Koefoed Style, USA, c. 1960

$1,050

Mid-Century High-Back Walnut & Leather Chair, Niels Koefoed Style, USA, c. 1960

By Niels Koefoed

Located in Deland, FL

Introducing a unique, hand-built accent chair from the 1960's. Built in the manner of Niels Koefoeds this character-rich ladder-back desk chair features intricate joinery, dazzling w...

Category

Vintage 1960s North American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Walnut

Pair of Chiavari Gio Ponti Style Mid-Century Modern Italian High Back Chairs 50s

$2,246Sale Price / set|30% Off

Pair of Chiavari Gio Ponti Style Mid-Century Modern Italian High Back Chairs 50s

By Chiavari, Gio Ponti

Located in Puglia, Puglia

Pair of fantastic high-backed ladder chairs in walnut-stained beech with seats in the original fabric of the time.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Beech, Fabric

Set of Six Teak Ladder Dining Chair by Niels Koefoed, Denmark, circa 1960

$4,800 / set

Set of Six Teak Ladder Dining Chair by Niels Koefoed, Denmark, circa 1960

By Niels Koefoed

Located in Geneva, CH

Set of 6 teak and black skaï ladder back dining chairs by Niels Koefoed produced by Koefoed Hornslet, Denmark, circa 1960 Reupholstered, signed.

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Faux Leather, Teak

Pair of Ole Wanscher Armchairs, Model 1755, Fritz Hansen, Denmark, 1940s

$10,888 / set

Pair of Ole Wanscher Armchairs, Model 1755, Fritz Hansen, Denmark, 1940s

By Fritz Hansen, Ole Wanscher

Located in The Hague, NL

Wanscher drew inspiration from 18th-century English furniture, particularly the refined ribbon-back and ladder-back chairs of the Chippendale style, and translated these historical e...

Category

Vintage 1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs

Materials

Fabric, Wool, Upholstery, Beech

3 Italian Renaissance style (17th Cent) green and gold painted & carved ladder b

$3,500 / item

3 Italian Renaissance style (17th Cent) green and gold painted & carved ladder b

Located in Queens, NY

3 Italian Renaissance style (17th Cent) green and gold painted & carved ladder back high back side chairs with rush seat.

Category

Antique 17th Century Italian Renaissance Side Chairs

Materials

Rush, Wood

Colombo Sanguineti Wicker Chairs

$900 / set

Colombo Sanguineti Wicker Chairs

By Colombo Sanguineti

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid-century vintage pair of wicker seat chairs by Colombo Sanguineti. Italian made wood frame chairs with ladder backs.

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Wicker, Walnut

Early 20th Century French Chairs Set of 8

$4,875 / set

Early 20th Century French Chairs Set of 8

Located in Nashville, TN

These 8 dining chairs are perfect for any style room! Hailing from early 20th century France, our dining room chairs feature ladder backs and rush seats.

Category

Early 20th Century French Chairs

Materials

Rush, Wood

Rosewood Dining Chairs by Vestergaard Jensen for Peder Pedersen

$7,200 / item

Rosewood Dining Chairs by Vestergaard Jensen for Peder Pedersen

By Helge Vestergaard-Jensen, Peder Pedersen

Located in Sagaponack, NY

A Scandinavian Modern ladder back dining chair by renowned Danish designer Helge Vestergaard-Jensen.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Rosewood

Early 20th Century French Carved Walnut Child Chair with Rush Seat

$825

Early 20th Century French Carved Walnut Child Chair with Rush Seat

By Charles Dudouyt

Located in Dallas, TX

This very comfortable antique ladder back child chair was crafted in Normandy, France circa 1940.

Category

Early 20th Century French Country Chairs

Materials

Rush, Walnut

Rosewood Dining Chairs by Vestergaard Jensen for Peder Pedersen

$6,800 / item

Rosewood Dining Chairs by Vestergaard Jensen for Peder Pedersen

By Peder Pedersen, Helge Vestergaard-Jensen

Located in Sagaponack, NY

A Scandinavian Modern ladder back dining chair by renowned Danish designer Helge Vestergaard-Jensen.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Rosewood

De Coene Frères Side Chairs, Hand-Crafted Wood, Green Upholstery, 1930

$1,868 / set

De Coene Frères Side Chairs, Hand-Crafted Wood, Green Upholstery, 1930

By De Coene Frères

Located in Antwerp, BE

A pair of antique ladder back wooden side chairs. Green stripe upholstery.

Category

Vintage 1930s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Fireplace chair designed by Gio Ponti for Casa e Giardino, Italy, circa 1940.

$6,418Sale Price|20% Off

Fireplace chair designed by Gio Ponti for Casa e Giardino, Italy, circa 1940.

By Casa e Giardino, Gio Ponti

Located in Piacenza, Italy

The woven straw seat introduces a natural texture that contrasts with the dark finish of the structure, highlighting the dialogue between lightness and structure. The distinctive lad...

Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Danish Modern Teak Ladder Back Arm Chair - Restored!

$1,250

Mid-Century Danish Modern Teak Ladder Back Arm Chair - Restored!

Located in Clarksboro, NJ

This striking Mid-Century Danish Modern arm chair showcases the clean lines, warm materials, and timeless craftsmanship associated with Scandinavian design of the 1960s. The sculptur...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood, Teak

19thc Original Black Painted New England Rocking Chair

$1,675

19thc Original Black Painted New England Rocking Chair

Located in Los Angeles, CA

19thc Original black painted ladder back rocking chair with paddle arms.This chair is strong and sturdy condition.Wonderful aged patina.

Category

Antique 1840s American Folk Art Rocking Chairs

Materials

Wood

Set of 4 Italian Rush Seat Chairs in the Style of Gio Ponti

$5,200 / set

Set of 4 Italian Rush Seat Chairs in the Style of Gio Ponti

By Gio Ponti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Set of 4 Italian rush seat chairs in the style of Gio Ponti. Sleek and stylish ladder back dining chairs.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Chairs

Materials

Rush, Wood

Stickley Brothers Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Side Chairs, Newly Refinished

$1,995 / set

Stickley Brothers Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Side Chairs, Newly Refinished

By Stickley Brothers

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional pair of antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period solid quarter sawn oak ladder back side chairs or dining chairs By Stickley Brothers USA, Circa 1910 Measures: 18.5"...

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Side Chairs

Materials

Oak

Antique English Regency Carved Maple Side Chairs or Dining Chairs, Circa 1890s

$1,495 / set

Antique English Regency Carved Maple Side Chairs or Dining Chairs, Circa 1890s

By Ralph Lauren

Located in South Bend, IN

A beautiful pair of antique English Regency ladder back side chairs or dining chairs England, Circa 1890s Carved solid maple frames, with Ralph Lauren style plaid upholstered seats.

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Maple

Century Furniture French Country Oak Side Chairs or Dining Chairs, Pair

$1,295 / set

Century Furniture French Country Oak Side Chairs or Dining Chairs, Pair

By Century Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

A gorgeous pair of French Country, French Provincial, or William and Mary style ladder back side chairs or dining chairs By Century Furniture USA, Circa 1960s Carved solid oak fra...

Category

Vintage 1960s American French Provincial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

18th Century English George III Side Chair

$1,450

18th Century English George III Side Chair

Located in Chicago, IL

A fantastic 18th century English George III ladder-back oak side chair with beautiful details including curved backsplats, a solid plank seat, trumpet turned legs ending in out-turne...

Category

Antique Late 18th Century English George III Side Chairs

Materials

Oak

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Side Chairs, Pair

$2,200 / set

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Side Chairs, Pair

By L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional pair of antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period ladder back side chairs or dining chairs By L. & J.G.

Category

Early 20th Century American Mission Side Chairs

Materials

Leather, Oak

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Side Chairs Pair

$2,495 / set

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Side Chairs Pair

By L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional pair of antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period ladder back dining chairs By L. & J.G. Stickley USA, Circa 1910 Solid quarter sawn oak frames, with leather upholste...

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Side Chairs

Materials

Leather, Oak

Gustav Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Rocking Chair, Circa 1910

$1,595

Gustav Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Rocking Chair, Circa 1910

By Gustav Stickley

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period ladder back rocking chair By Gustav Stickley (signed with red decal) USA, Circa 1910 Gorgeous quarter sawn oak, with leather...

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Rocking Chairs

Materials

Leather, Oak

Pair Of Regency Revival Green-Painted Chairs With Woven Seats

$1,042Sale Price / set|20% Off

Pair Of Regency Revival Green-Painted Chairs With Woven Seats

Located in Bruton, GB

Elegant pair of Regency Revival side chairs distinguished by their timeworn green painted finish and refined ladder-back forms.

Category

Late 20th Century Regency Revival Side Chairs

Materials

Cane, Hardwood

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Desk Chair, Circa 1910

$895

L. & J. G. Stickley Antique Mission Oak Arts & Crafts Desk Chair, Circa 1910

By L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional antique Mission or Arts & Crafts period ladder back desk chair, side chair, or dining chair By L. & J.

Category

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Side Chairs

Materials

Oak

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Ladder Back Chairs For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of ladder back chairs is available at 1stDibs. Each of these unique ladder back chairs was constructed with extraordinary care, often using wood, natural fiber and rush. Find 1317 antique and vintage ladder back chairs at 1stDibs now, or shop our selection of 20 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished furniture. There are all kinds of ladder back chairs available, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. Ladder back chairs made by mid-century modern designers — as well as those associated with Scandinavian Modern — are very popular at 1stDibs. Some ladder back chairs are too large for some spaces — a variety of smaller ladder back chairs, measuring 1 inches across, are available at 1stDibs. There have been many well-made ladder back chairs over the years, but those made by Niels Koefoed, Koefoeds Hornslet and T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much are Ladder Back Chairs?

The average selling price for at 1stDibs is $2,342, while they’re typically $95 on the low end and $54,000 highest priced.

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 Ladder Back Chairs

What era are ladder back chairs from?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Ladder back chairs have a timeless design that was popular in several eras. Early examples date back to the Middle Ages. The wooden chairs became very popular in colonial America and England during the 17th century. Shop a range of antique and vintage ladder back chairs on 1stDibs.
What are round back chairs called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Round back chairs are often called barrel chairs or barrel back chairs. This is because the curvy shape makes the back look similar to half of a barrel. Often, this type of chair has an upholstered seat and exposed wood legs. You'll find a selection of barrel chairs on 1stDibs.
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 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 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 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 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.
How do you upholster a channel back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To upholster a channel back chair, you will need to remove the seat and back of the chair, measure for new padding and upholstery and make specialized cuts and patterns for the channels. Upholstering channel back chairs is challenging, so if you’re not experienced in upholstering furniture, it’s best to take it to someone who is. Shop a selection of upholstered channel chairs from top sellers on 1stDibs.
What era are balloon back chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Balloon back chairs are from the Victorian era, which lasted from the late 1830s to the turn of the 20th century. These chairs get their name from their rounded backrests and narrow waists, which make it seem like their tops have ballooned or grown in size. On 1stDibs, shop a range of balloon back chairs.
What kind of chair is best for your back?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
The best chairs to prevent lower back pain are the Steelcase lamp chair, the Humanscale Freedom chair, and the Herman Miller Aeron chair. If you're shopping for a chair that will help with lower back pain, there is a variety of chairs that will meet your needs on 1stDibs.
What are cross back chairs called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
Cross back chairs are sometimes called X-back chairs because of the crisscrossing design. However, cross back chair is a commonly used name in its own right. Since couples often rent these types of chairs for seating during wedding ceremonies, some people call cross back chairs wedding chairs. Shop an assortment of cross back chairs on 1stDibs.
Who designed the shield back chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023
Vladimir Kagan designed the Shield Back chair, which debuted in 1955. It features an upholstered back and seat. Cabinetmaker George Hepplewhite is also known for creating an all-wood shield back chair sometime during the mid-18th century. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of shield back chairs.
When were shield back chairs made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
Shield back chairs were first made during the 18th century. However, the timeless design of these dining chairs continues to appeal to many people, so many furniture makers continue to produce chairs with distinctive shield backs. Shop a variety of shield 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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