What is a Parsons chair?

A Parsons chair is a type of dining chair. It features four wooden legs with a slight taper. In some cases, the front legs may be turned. The chairs also tend to have high rectangular backs and lightly padded seats, both clad in upholstery. The name Parsons chair refers to the Parsons School of Design in Paris, France, where students first developed the now iconic chair during the 1930s. Shop an assortment of Parsons chairs on 1stDibs.

What is a Parsons-style chair?

A Parsons-style chair is a type of seating furniture with a simple square back and straight arms that connect to rectangular legs. The name comes from the Parsons School of Design in Paris, France, where the chairs originated in the 1930s. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Parsons-style chairs.

Why is it called a Parsons chair?

Why it is called a Parsons chair relates to the history of this seating style. During the 1930s, a group of students at the Parsons School of Design in Paris, France, created the first example of the Parsons chair for a project that involved trying to design a comfortable chair that could blend in with many types of decor. It quickly became popular among furniture makers, who began duplicating the chair, calling it the Parsons chair in honor of its creators. Explore a collection of Parsons chairs on 1stDibs.

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

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

What are chairs with arms called?

Chairs with arms are called armchairs, and there are many styles of them. Examples include club, wingback and roll arm chairs. Find a collection of armchairs on 1stDibs today.

What do you call a chair with arms?

A chair with arms is an armchair .

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 do you call an accent chair with no arms?

An accent chair with no arms is typically called a slipper chair. These upholstered chairs originated in Europe during the 18th century and often served as seating in bedrooms. Today, people place slipper chairs in seating areas as well as bedrooms. Find a variety of slipper chairs on 1stDibs.

Should dining room chairs have arms?

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

What are dining room chairs with arms called?

Dining room chairs with arms are simply called armchairs. They are not to be confused with armchairs used in seating areas. A dining chair without arms is a side chair. You'll find a collection of antique and vintage 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.

What are dining chairs without arms called?

Dining chairs without arms are called side chairs. Their counterpart, the armchair, is often found at the head of the table, with the side chairs filling in the seats along the side of the table. Shop a collection of side chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Parsons Arm Chair

Parsons Armchair

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Sublime Set of 8 Greek Key ARM Parsons Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker

$64,000 / set

Sublime Set of 8 Greek Key ARM Parsons Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker

By Baker Furniture Company, Michael Taylor

Located in Atlanta, GA

An sophisticated unique set of eight (8) restored Parsons style Greek Key arm dining chairs by the esteemed Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

All Arms, Sublime Set of 16 Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1970

$124,500 / set

All Arms, Sublime Set of 16 Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1970

By Baker Furniture Company, Michael Taylor

Located in Atlanta, GA

An sophisticated unique set of sixteen (16) restored Parsons style Greek Key arm dining chairs by the esteemed Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

All Arms, Sublime Set of 12 Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1970

$92,500 / set

All Arms, Sublime Set of 12 Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1970

By Baker Furniture Company, Michael Taylor

Located in Atlanta, GA

An sophisticated unique set of twelve (12) meticulously restored Parsons style Greek Key arm dining chairs by the esteemed Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Sublime Set of 20 Vintage Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture

$160,000 / set

Sublime Set of 20 Vintage Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture

By Baker Furniture Company, Michael Taylor

Located in Atlanta, GA

An sophisticated unique set of twenty (20) meticulously restored Parsons style Greek Key arm dining chairs by the esteemed Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Milo Baughman Parsons Style Ivory Bouclé Chairs with en suite Ottoman c. 1970s

$12,400 / set

Milo Baughman Parsons Style Ivory Bouclé Chairs with en suite Ottoman c. 1970s

By Milo Baughman

Located in Saint Louis, MO

A seductive silhouette and ultimate comfort come naturally to this unique pair of Milo Baughman Parsons style Mid Century Modern arm chairs with matching en suite Parsons style ottom...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Bouclé, Upholstery

Recent Sales

Vintage Pair of Newly Upholstered Palm Beach Club Parsons Arm Chairs Armchairs

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H 30.5 in W 24.25 in D 21 in

Vintage Pair of Newly Upholstered Palm Beach Club Parsons Arm Chairs Armchairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Vintage pair of parsons arm chairs armchairs. In the style of Milo Baughman.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Pair of Custom Upholstered Parsons Arm Chairs

Sold

H 42 in W 25 in D 18 in

Pair of Custom Upholstered Parsons Arm Chairs

Located in North York, ON

This listing is for a pair of custom upholstered parsons arm chairs done by our skilled upholsterers and finishers at Carrocel.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Armchairs

Vintage Pair of Large Milo Baughman Style Parsons Arm Chairs Club Lounge

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H 26.5 in W 27 in D 30 in

Vintage Pair of Large Milo Baughman Style Parsons Arm Chairs Club Lounge

By Milo Baughman

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Vintage pair of parsons arm chairs in the style of Milo Baughman.

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

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Velvet

Pair 1970s Milo Baughman Style Parsons Arm Chairs

Sold

H 29.5 in W 29 in D 32.5 in

Pair 1970s Milo Baughman Style Parsons Arm Chairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in Stamford, CT

Pair of Milo Baughman style all upholstered Parsons lounge chairs from the 1970s. Seat backs are button tufted. Fabric is in good condition. Loose seat cushion. Tight back cushion. R...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery

Sculptural Parsons Open Arm Lounge Chairs, 1970

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H 30 in W 29 in D 29 in

Sculptural Parsons Open Arm Lounge Chairs, 1970

By Parsons

Located in Chicago, IL

Sculptural Parsons Open Arm Lounge Chairs, 1970's. Newly reupholstered in a dual tone red with orange backing velvet.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

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Velvet

Pair of Open-Arm Parsons Club Chairs

Sold

H 29 in W 29 in D 34 in

Pair of Open-Arm Parsons Club Chairs

Located in Danville, CA

Handsome pair of fully upholstered, open-arm club chairs. The pair are beautifully scaled, super comfortable, and as stylish is it gets. Most every important designer had a version o...

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Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

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Parsons Chairs Vintage Pair of Grey Leather Arm Chairs Milo Baughman Style

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H 29 in W 29 in D 25.25 in

Parsons Chairs Vintage Pair of Grey Leather Arm Chairs Milo Baughman Style

By Milo Baughman

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Wonderful vintage pair of lounge chairs in a beautiful, soft grey leather. I have pictured them with the back pillows but in one picture I have shown one without, so you can get an i...

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20th Century American Hollywood Regency Club Chairs

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Midcentury Blue Velvet Milo Baughman Style Parsons Open Arm Club Chairs

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H 29 in W 28.25 in

Midcentury Blue Velvet Milo Baughman Style Parsons Open Arm Club Chairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in Oklahoma City, OK

Pair of midcentury blue velvet Milo Baughman style armchairs. Newly upholstered in a buttery soft blue velvet fabric. (Jewel tones are all the rage in 2018) The back cushions on the ...

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

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Metal

Vintage Green Fully Upholstered Parson Style Captains Lounge Arm Chairs, a Pair

Sold

H 40 in W 27.5 in D 24.5 in

Vintage Green Fully Upholstered Parson Style Captains Lounge Arm Chairs, a Pair

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage green fully upholstered Parsons style captains lounge arm chairs - a Pair.

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Late 20th Century American Hollywood Regency Lounge Chairs

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Matching Pair of Mid Century Modern Open Arm Parsons Style Lounge Chairs

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H 28.5 in W 24 in D 24 in

Matching Pair of Mid Century Modern Open Arm Parsons Style Lounge Chairs

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A handsome matching pair of armchairs circa 1970's. These feature open arm design and retain their original upholstery. Recovering is recommended but usable as is. We have 4 in stock...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fabric

Pair of Milo baughman fully upholstered velvet parsons dining arm chairs

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H 37 in W 21 in D 19 in

Pair of Milo baughman fully upholstered velvet parsons dining arm chairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Set of 4 Milo baughman Thayer Coggin fully upholstered velvet parsons dining chairs. A nice set of 4 chairs in chocolate brown velvet. Both chairs are matching and all in the same vi...

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Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

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Upholstery, Velvet, Wood

Drexel Heritage Parsons Arm Lounge Club Chairs Camel Velvet Vintage Pair

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H 28.5 in W 28.25 in D 26 in

Drexel Heritage Parsons Arm Lounge Club Chairs Camel Velvet Vintage Pair

By Drexel

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Lovely pair of vintage Drexel Heritage parsons, club, lounge armchairs in a beautiful camel brown velvet. Original upholstery in beautiful condition. May have some slight areas of li...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Velvet

Pair of Open-Arm Parson Style Chairs in the Style Milo Baughman

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H 30 in W 28 in D 27 in

Pair of Open-Arm Parson Style Chairs in the Style Milo Baughman

By Milo Baughman

Located in Dallas, TX

Pair of open-arm Parson style chairs in the style Milo Baughman.

Category

Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

All Arms - Sublime Set of 12 Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1970

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H 40.5 in W 22 in D 21 in

All Arms - Sublime Set of 12 Greek Key Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1970

By Michael Taylor, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

An sophisticated unique set of twelve (12) restored Parsons style Greek Key arm dining chairs by the esteemed Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Milo Baughman Upholstered Parsons Arm Chair

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H 30 in W 25 in D 21 in

Milo Baughman Upholstered Parsons Arm Chair

By Milo Baughman

Located in Redding, CT

Milo Baughman Upholstered Parsons arm chair. Original vintage upholstery in very good condition and currently in style.

Category

Vintage 1980s Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

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Upholstery, Wood

Pair Midcentury Parsons Style Lounge Chairs by Bernhardt, After Milo Baughman

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H 34 in W 28 in D 29 in

Pair Midcentury Parsons Style Lounge Chairs by Bernhardt, After Milo Baughman

By Milo Baughman, Bernhardt

Located in Decatur, GA

Classic pair of mid 1970's Parsons style arm chairs by Bernhardt. Stout and sturdy American craftsmanship and a timeless design classic.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

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Chenille

Pair of Modern Parsons-Style Armchairs, circa 1970s

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H 34 in W 27 in D 27 in

Pair of Modern Parsons-Style Armchairs, circa 1970s

Located in Norwalk, CT

A classic pair of Parsons-style open arm chairs, newly upholstered in velvet.

Category

Vintage 1970s Modern Armchairs

Pair of Parsons Arm Chairs

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H 30 in W 28 in D 27 in

Pair of Parsons Arm Chairs

Located in Miami, FL

Pair of Parsons style arm chairs, orange mohair/velvet. Simple and chic.

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Vintage 1970s American Table Lamps

Set of Four Milo Baughman Parsons Chairs in Luxurious Garnet Velvet

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H 34 in W 25 in D 27 in

Set of Four Milo Baughman Parsons Chairs in Luxurious Garnet Velvet

By Milo Baughman, Thayer Coggin

Located in Houston, TX

Set of four Milo Baughman Parsons arm chairs recently recovered in Ralph Lauren Chancery garnet velvet.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Milo Baughman Parson Style Lounge Chairs

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H 29 in W 29 in D 29 in

Milo Baughman Parson Style Lounge Chairs

By Milo Baughman

Located in Houston, TX

Pair of Milo Baughman Parson Style open arm chairs recently upholstered in cream boucle with custom bronze metal studs.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Lounge Chairs

Pair Milo Baughman tufted parson armchairs

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Pair Milo Baughman tufted parson armchairs

Located in New York, NY

Pair of tufted back Milo Baughman parson style arm chairs.

Category

20th Century American Chairs

Pair Midcentury Parsons Style Lounge Chairs by Bernhardt, After Milo Baughman

Sold

H 34 in W 28 in D 29 in

Pair Midcentury Parsons Style Lounge Chairs by Bernhardt, After Milo Baughman

By Bernhardt, Milo Baughman

Located in Framingham, MA

Classic pair of mid 1970's Parsons style arm chairs by Bernhardt. Stout and sturdy American craftsmanship and a timeless design classic.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Bouclé, Wood

Unrivaled Set of 12 Cane Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1960- Cane Seat

$105,000 / set

H 34 in W 20.75 in D 20 in

Unrivaled Set of 12 Cane Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1960- Cane Seat

By Baker Furniture Company, Michael Taylor

Located in Atlanta, GA

This large ALL ARMS set of impossible to find seating examples is unique on the World market. These magnificent dining chairs are shipped as professionally photographed and described...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Walnut

Extraordinary Set of 12 Modern Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings for Widdicomb

$99,000 / set

H 32 in W 24 in D 21 in

Extraordinary Set of 12 Modern Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings for Widdicomb

By Widdicomb Furniture Co., T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings

Located in Atlanta, GA

An exceptional, meticulously restored set of twelve (12) modern Klismos dining chairs by the esteemed T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings for Widdicomb, circa 1950. The set consists of two (2) Ho...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Exquisite Set of 8 Vintage Klismos Cane Dining Chairs by Baker

$67,000 / set

H 32.5 in W 19.75 in D 17 in

Exquisite Set of 8 Vintage Klismos Cane Dining Chairs by Baker

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

The rarest of the rare: An exceptional, meticulously restored set of eight (8) cane back Klismos dining chairs by Baker Furniture, circa 1958. A set of this magnitude is the Collecto...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

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Breathtaking Set of 8 Modern V-Back Cane Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1960

$64,500 / set

H 35 in W 21 in D 20 in

Breathtaking Set of 8 Modern V-Back Cane Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1960

By Michael Taylor, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

This magnificent unique set of dining chairs is shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: Meticulously professionally restored, newly upholstered...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Cherry

Extraordinary ALL ARMS Set of 12 Vintage Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings

$114,000 / set

H 32 in W 23 in D 21.5 in

Extraordinary ALL ARMS Set of 12 Vintage Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings

By T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, Widdicomb Furniture Co.

Located in Atlanta, GA

An exceptional, meticulously restored set of twelve (12) modern Klismos arm dining chairs by the esteemed T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings for Widdicomb, circa 1950. A set of this size of thes...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

All Arms- Miraculous Set of 14 Arm Klismos Cane Dining Chairs by Edward Wormley

$133,000 / set

H 34 in W 25 in D 21 in

All Arms- Miraculous Set of 14 Arm Klismos Cane Dining Chairs by Edward Wormley

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Atlanta, GA

The rarest of the rare, an exceptional, meticulously restored set of fourteen (14) cane back Klismos ARM dining chairs by Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture, circa 1948. A set of th...

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Walnut

All Arms, Extraordinary Set of 14 Modern Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings

$135,000 / set

H 32 in W 23 in D 21.5 in

All Arms, Extraordinary Set of 14 Modern Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings

By Widdicomb Furniture Co., T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings

Located in Atlanta, GA

An exceptional, meticulously restored set of fourteen (14) modern Klismos arm dining chairs by the esteemed T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings for Widdicomb, circa 1950. A set of this size of th...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Michael Taylor for Baker Greek Key Dining Chairs - Set of 8

$5,447 / set

H 35 in W 23.25 in D 24 in

Michael Taylor for Baker Greek Key Dining Chairs - Set of 8

By Baker Furniture Company, Michael Taylor

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Michael Taylor for Baker Greek Key Dining Chairs - Set of 8 Each armless chair measures: 18.25 wide x 21 deep x 32 high, with a seat height of 17.5 inches Each captains chair measur...

Category

Early 2000s American Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

All Arms, Exquisite Set of 20 Klismos Cane Dining Chairs by Baker, circa 1958

$190,000 / set

H 32.5 in W 21.5 in D 17 in

All Arms, Exquisite Set of 20 Klismos Cane Dining Chairs by Baker, circa 1958

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

These magnificent dining chairs are shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative, completely installation ready. This large All Arm set of difficult ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Organic Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Cherry

Spectacular Restored Set of 8 Modern Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1957

$39,500 / set

H 31.5 in W 20 in D 19.5 in

Spectacular Restored Set of 8 Modern Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor, circa 1957

By Michael Taylor, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

This magnificent set of dining chairs is shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: Meticulously professionally restored, newly upholstered and co...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

All Arms - Chic Set of 8 Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker, circa 1960

$49,500 / set

H 32.5 in W 24 in D 20 in

All Arms - Chic Set of 8 Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker, circa 1960

By Michael Taylor, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

This magnificent unique set of dining chairs is shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: Meticulously professionally restored, newly upholstered...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

All Arms, Extraordinary Set of 8 Vintage Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings

$76,000 / set

H 32 in W 23 in D 21.5 in

All Arms, Extraordinary Set of 8 Vintage Klismos Chairs by Robsjohn-Gibbings

By Widdicomb Furniture Co., T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings

Located in Atlanta, GA

An exceptional, meticulously restored set of eight (8) modern Klismos arm dining chairs by the esteemed T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings for Widdicomb, circa 1950. A set of this size of these ...

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Elegant Set of 12 Parsons Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker, circa 1970

$81,000 / set

H 40 in W 22 in D 20 in

Elegant Set of 12 Parsons Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker, circa 1970

By Michael Taylor, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

A sublime set of twelve (12) restored Parsons style dining chairs by Baker, circa 1970. This elegant series is routinely attributed to the esteemed Michael Taylor. Beautiful, expertl...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Chic Set of 8 Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1960

$49,500 / set

H 32.5 in W 22 in D 20 in

Chic Set of 8 Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1960

By Baker Furniture Company, Michael Taylor

Located in Atlanta, GA

This magnificent set of dining chairs is shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: Meticulously professionally restored, newly upholstered and co...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Stellar ALL ARM Set of 8 Vintage Cane Dining Chairs by Wormley for Dunbar

$76,000 / set

H 34 in W 25 in D 21 in

Stellar ALL ARM Set of 8 Vintage Cane Dining Chairs by Wormley for Dunbar

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Atlanta, GA

The rarest of the rare, an exceptional, meticulously restored set of eight (8) cane back Klismos ARM dining chairs by Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture, circa 1948. A set of this m...

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

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Stellar Set of 8 Walnut Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker, circa 1955

$52,000 / set

H 31 in W 22.25 in D 23 in

Stellar Set of 8 Walnut Dining Chairs by Michael Taylor for Baker, circa 1955

By Michael Taylor, Baker Furniture Company

Located in Atlanta, GA

A magnificent meticulously restored set of eight (8) dining chairs from a boutique series by the esteemed Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, circa 1955. There are two (2) host and s...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

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Pair of 70s Style Italian Bamboo and Brass Table Lamps

Located in New York, NY

Monumental size Bamboo lamps. Crafted in Italy and made to order, these lamps are modern and chic. Production lead time 2-4 weeks. Base diameter 8 inches, hat diameter 20 inches, he...

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Contemporary Organic Modern Moroccan Handmade Terracotta White Ceramic Wall Lamp

$592 / item

H 4.3 in W 5.5 in D 12.2 in

Contemporary Organic Modern Moroccan Handmade Terracotta White Ceramic Wall Lamp

Located in Marseille, FR

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Parchment, Brass and Glass Table Lamp by Diego Mardegan for Glustin Luminaires

$9,575 / item

H 39.38 in W 9.85 in D 31.5 in

Parchment, Brass and Glass Table Lamp by Diego Mardegan for Glustin Luminaires

By Diego Mardegan

Located in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, IDF

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Antique Clock Garniture with Sèvres Style Porcelain and Ormolu

$24,588 / set

H 23.63 in W 10.24 in D 8.67 in

Antique Clock Garniture with Sèvres Style Porcelain and Ormolu

By Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres

Located in London, GB

This fantastic porcelain clock garniture contains three vases, one of which has been mounted with a ormolu clock dial with jewels surrounding it. The vases are decorated in the style...

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Set of Eight Louis XVI-Style Painted Dining Chairs, Late 20th Century

$39,000 / set

H 38 in W 20.5 in D 19 in

Set of Eight Louis XVI-Style Painted Dining Chairs, Late 20th Century

Located in New York, NY

Set of eight Louis XVI-style painted dining chairs — two armchairs and six side chairs — upholstered in blue Cowtan & Tout fabric with brass nailhead trim. Made 1980–1999. Each c...

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$3,850

H 1 in W 9 in D 1 in

Russian 88 Silver And Jade Amethyst Letter Opener

Located in Long Island City, NY

A Russian Neoclassical paper knife or letter opener in the style of a Roman gladius sword. The blade is made of polished nephrite jade stone. Pink guilloche enamel handle with gilt a...

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Venetian Pink Flower Murano Glass Mirror

$6,839

H 55.12 in W 29.53 in D 3.94 in

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Located in Rome, IT

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Pierre Jeanneret Chairs with Cushion, Set of 6

$49,920 / set

H 32.5 in W 16.25 in D 19.25 in

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By Pierre Jeanneret

Located in Los Angeles, CA

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20th Century Indian Dining Room Chairs

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Velvet, Cane, Teak

Ernesto Valabrega for Vittorio Valabrega Set of Six Dining Chairs in Oak

$12,400 / set

H 34.06 in W 19.69 in D 21.07 in

Ernesto Valabrega for Vittorio Valabrega Set of Six Dining Chairs in Oak

By Vittorio Valabrega

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Ernesto Valabrega for Vittorio Valabrega, set of six dining chairs, oak, beech, fabric, Italy, 1930s Designed by Ernesto Valabrega for Vittorio Valabrega in the 1930s, this set of d...

Category

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Brass

Pair of Waldorf Astoria NYC Lobby Chairs after Paul Iribe's Fauteuil Nautile

$16,000 / set

H 46 in W 33 in D 31 in

Pair of Waldorf Astoria NYC Lobby Chairs after Paul Iribe's Fauteuil Nautile

By Paul Iribe

Located in Hanover, MA

We are fortunate to have acquired a pair of these amazing gondola lounge chairs from the lobby of the glamorous and historic Waldorf Astoria Hotel, New York City, generously scaled a...

Category

Early 2000s American Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Tall Tiffany Studios Geometric 20” Vine Border Table Lamp

$37,000

H 31 in Dm 20 in

Tall Tiffany Studios Geometric 20” Vine Border Table Lamp

By Tiffany Studios

Located in Dallas, TX

Tiffany Studios New York "Vine Border" Shade and Library Base Table Lamp In perfect original condition which is extremely rare for a 115 yr old lamp. The glass is diachronic and lig...

Category

Vintage 1910s American Art Nouveau Table Lamps

Materials

Bronze

Pair of French Midcentury Iron & Limestone End/ Side Tables, Giacometti

$11,900 / set

H 29.5 in Dm 19.5 in

Pair of French Midcentury Iron & Limestone End/ Side Tables, Giacometti

By Alberto and Diego Giacometti, Jean-Michel Frank

Located in New York, NY

Elegant Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Style Wrought Iron and Limestone Side or End Tables in Style of Alberto and Diego Giacometti for Jean Michel Frank. Each table sits on a ...

Category

Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern End Tables

Materials

Limestone, Wrought Iron

Superb Set of Eight George II Dining Chairs

$150,000 / set

H 38.3 in W 21.5 in D 17.5 in

Superb Set of Eight George II Dining Chairs

By Giles Grendey

Located in Greenwich, CT

A superb set of eight George II carved mahogany dining chairs having a carved crest rail with a pierced and carved splat, carved styles, having a drop in seat on substantial carved c...

Category

Antique Mid-18th Century English George II Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

1960s Kent-Coffey Highboy Dresser, Walnut, Mid-Century Modern

Unavailable|~~$1,627~~

H 51.75 in W 42 in D 20 in

1960s Kent-Coffey Highboy Dresser, Walnut, Mid-Century Modern

By Kent-Coffey

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Beautiful 1960s Kent-Coffey Perspecta highboy dresser. Lots of storage with three lower pull out drawers and two additional + two shelves hidden behind the upper doors. In good vin...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Materials

Rosewood, Walnut

Long Brass Chandelier With Rectangular Murano Glass Panels

$10,425 / item

H 39.38 in W 67.72 in D 14.97 in

Long Brass Chandelier With Rectangular Murano Glass Panels

Located in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, IDF

Long and narrow chandelier, ideal above a dining table, made of a brass structure and covered with Murano glass panels. The structure has a surprising shape with 90 degres angles sy...

Category

2010s Italian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Pair of French Style Streamline Art Deco Glass Top Side Tables

$4,850 / set

H 26.25 in W 19.75 in D 19.75 in

Pair of French Style Streamline Art Deco Glass Top Side Tables

Located in Bernville, PA

Pair of Art Deco streamline tulip shaped glass top side tables. This simple and elegant design from the period has frosted edge glass tops that are supported by gentle curving legs o...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Side Tables

Materials

Glass, Maple

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Parsons Arm Chair For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic parsons arm chair available at 1stDibs. Each parsons arm chair for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using fabric, wood and upholstery. Your living room may not be complete without a parsons arm chair — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. When you’re browsing for the right parsons arm chair, those designed in Mid-Century Modern and Hollywood Regency styles are of considerable interest. Many designers have produced at least one well-made parsons arm chair over the years, but those crafted by Drexel are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Parsons Arm Chair?

Prices for a parsons arm chair can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $960 and can go as high as $4,400, while the average can fetch as much as $2,625.

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 Parsons Arm Chair

What is a Parsons chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
A Parsons chair is a type of dining chair. It features four wooden legs with a slight taper. In some cases, the front legs may be turned. The chairs also tend to have high rectangular backs and lightly padded seats, both clad in upholstery. The name Parsons chair refers to the Parsons School of Design in Paris, France, where students first developed the now iconic chair during the 1930s. Shop an assortment of Parsons chairs on 1stDibs.
What is a Parsons-style chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A Parsons-style chair is a type of seating furniture with a simple square back and straight arms that connect to rectangular legs. The name comes from the Parsons School of Design in Paris, France, where the chairs originated in the 1930s. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Parsons-style chairs.
Why is it called a Parsons chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
Why it is called a Parsons chair relates to the history of this seating style. During the 1930s, a group of students at the Parsons School of Design in Paris, France, created the first example of the Parsons chair for a project that involved trying to design a comfortable chair that could blend in with many types of decor. It quickly became popular among furniture makers, who began duplicating the chair, calling it the Parsons chair in honor of its creators. Explore a collection of Parsons chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
The difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair is style. A side chair is a very commonly used dining chair. The form of a side chair may vary, but the constant is the lack of armrests to keep hands free for eating and to save space at the table. A Parsons chair is a type of side chair that features upholstery on the seat and back. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.
What are chairs with arms called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
Chairs with arms are called armchairs, and there are many styles of them. Examples include club, wingback and roll arm chairs. Find a collection of armchairs on 1stDibs today.
What do you call a chair with arms?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
A chair with arms is an armchair.
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 do you call an accent chair with no arms?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
An accent chair with no arms is typically called a slipper chair. These upholstered chairs originated in Europe during the 18th century and often served as seating in bedrooms. Today, people place slipper chairs in seating areas as well as bedrooms. Find a variety of slipper chairs on 1stDibs.
Should dining room chairs have arms?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Dining room chairs with arms require more space than armless ones.
What are dining room chairs with arms called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Dining room chairs with arms are simply called armchairs. They are not to be confused with armchairs used in seating areas. A dining chair without arms is a side chair. You'll find a collection of antique and vintage 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.
What are dining chairs without arms called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Dining chairs without arms are called side chairs. Their counterpart, the armchair, is often found at the head of the table, with the side chairs filling in the seats along the side of the table. Shop a collection of side chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How Top Designers Are Using Mid-Century Chairs in Today’s Interiors

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The 21 Most Popular Mid-Century Modern Chairs

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Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Chair Shook Modernism and Charmed Hollywood

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Herman Miller Got Its Start in the Office, but Its Legacy Is in the Home

The brand that turned Charles and Ray Eames, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson into mid-century household names is just as relevant today as it was six decades ago.