Federal Armchairs
Following the Revolutionary War, the American republic referenced the Roman Republic in its designs to celebrate its independence and declare itself a powerful new country. Imbued with neoclassical elements like those being promoted by architect Robert Adam in Great Britain, antique Federal-style furniture was the first distinctly American style in its melding of ancient influences, European aesthetics and national pride.
Dating roughly from 1790 to 1830, the style featured angular furniture with saber legs and smooth surfaces that contrasted with the curvy Rococo style that was previously in fashion. Eagles were common ornamental motifs on Federal-period furniture, as were cornucopia, lyres, garlands and scrolls, adding subtle flair to pieces characterized by clean lines, geometric symmetry, balanced shapes and a sense of grandeur.
Instead of sculptural carvings, authentic Federal-style furniture was adorned with inlays and patterned veneers that showcased the rich character of different grains and types of wood. As social life tended to be informal in the young country, furniture was often lightweight, so it could be easily rearranged in a drawing room or bedroom. Pieces like dining tables with drop leaves and sideboards became popular, replacing larger chests of drawers.
The Federal style varied by region: Artisans in Charleston, South Carolina, decorated chairs with carved backs, for instance, while those in Baltimore, Maryland, preferred painted details. Its major proponents included father-and-son cabinetmakers John and Thomas Seymour in Boston, Duncan Phyfe and Charles-Honoré Lannuier in New York and Samuel McIntire in Salem, Massachusetts.
Find antique Federal tables, mirrors, storage cabinets and other Federal furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
19th Century American Antique Federal Armchairs
Upholstery, Mahogany
1930s American Vintage Federal Armchairs
Velvet, Mahogany
Early 19th Century Russian Antique Federal Armchairs
Metal
1980s Vintage Federal Armchairs
Velvet, Mahogany
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Federal Armchairs
Upholstery
Late 19th Century American Antique Federal Armchairs
Upholstery, Mahogany, Wood
19th Century American Antique Federal Armchairs
Early 19th Century American Antique Federal Armchairs
Cotton, Velvet, Mahogany
1790s American Antique Federal Armchairs
Upholstery, Mahogany, Satinwood, Muslin
19th Century American Antique Federal Armchairs
Maple, Pine, Paint
19th Century English Antique Federal Armchairs
Velvet, Mahogany
Late 18th Century American Antique Federal Armchairs
Mahogany
Late 20th Century American Federal Armchairs
Upholstery, Mahogany