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Folk Art Seating

FOLK ART STYLE

Folk art is a genre of art that shares the creator’s traditions, offering not just an artistic display but an opportunity to learn about a culture. Antique, new and vintage folk art typically reflects a heritage or location. It can include utilitarian objects and handmade art as diverse as weather vanes, duck decoys, portraiture and paintings, carnival art and quilts.

Quilts are a quintessential part of American folk art but their roots are international, with quilting dating back to Ancient Egypt. The practice spread to Europe and was especially prominent in the Middle Ages, with one of the oldest surviving examples being the Tristan quilt made in Sicily in the 14th century. They were made as bedcovers and clothing, including as a layer for knights to wear beneath their armor. Native American folk art includes functional objects reflecting their heritage, such as baskets, textiles and wooden pieces.

Elsewhere, the vast range of work associated with Mexican folk art includes masks made by Mexican craftspeople for traditional celebrations and ceremonial dances. Mexican masks are part of the country’s folk-art traditions that go back thousands of years and play a role in festivals and theater.

Works in the folk art tradition are valuable because of the skills involved, like weaving, hand-carving wood and even stonework. Many folk artists are self-taught, while some train as apprentices within their community. By using available materials and taking a personal approach to their creations, artists ensure each piece is unique and conveys a story.

During the Great Depression, artistic materials in America were hard to come by, so artisans used discarded wood from cigar boxes and shipping crates to make highly stylized, notched pieces — most often picture frames and boxes — that are today sought after by collectors. This folk art style is called tramp art and was popular from roughly 1870 until the 1940s.

Folk art brings vibrant culture and traditions into your home. Browse an extensive collection of antique, new and vintage folk art on 1stDibs.

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Style: Folk Art
Stool Fruitwood Treen Heart Love Minature Folk Vernacular Commemorative Child's
Located in BUNGAY, SUFFOLK
- Charming piece of folk, vernacular, country furniture oozing character. - It was most likely intended as a love token or to commemorate a child as there is not much wear on the un...
Category

1780s English Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Fruitwood

Swedish Folk Art Chair Handmade in Oakwood, 1900s
Located in Odense, DK
Charming and unusual Swedish Folk Art chair made by a skilled craftsman in the early 20th century. The chair is constructed from solid oak and oak laminate decorative arm rests. The ...
Category

Early 1900s Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Oak

European Mid-Century Wooden Stools with Hand-Carved Scoop Seats, Europe ca 1950s
Located in Budapest, HU
The design of this European stool is characterized by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. Its focus is on simple lines and light spaces, devoid...
Category

Mid-20th Century European Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Brutalist bar stools Mid-Century 1950s
Located in Cantù, IT
Brutalist bar stools Mid-Century 1950s
Category

1950s Italian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Stephen Huneck Carved Wooden Dog Footstool
By Steven Huneck
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Stephen Huneck hand carved wooden dog footstool. Perfect as a foot stool, ottoman or playful sculpture. Dimensions 7" width x 20" depth x 15" height. Condition Good vintage condition.
Category

Late 20th Century American Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Hand-carved outsider art bench with face, twentieth century
Located in View Park, CA
A hand-crafted outsider art wooden bench, featuring a face and a metal edge, twentieth century. On four legs, the bench is a sturdy functional sculpture that will add eclecticism and...
Category

Late 20th Century American Folk Art Seating

Materials

Iron

Antique Beechwood Children's Chair
Located in Budapest, HU
Antique children's highchair with an abacus and potty chair functions. Made of steamed beechwood, with leather cover. Manufactured around 1910.  
Category

1910s Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Leather, Beech

Antique Wooden Folding Chair, Black Forest Style carved Wood, 1910s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This early 20th century folding chair from Germany is an excellent example of the black forest style. The piece has a rustic-looking seat made of wood and a wood carved backrest. The stool has a simple, understated design which is typical of early 20th century garden or yard furniture...
Category

1910s German Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Metal

Late 19th Century Swedish Stump Chair in Solid Pine
Located in Kramfors, SE
Swedish stump chair manufactured from a hollowed tree trunk. The chair is primitive and has never been painted. The two bands going around the seat...
Category

Late 19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

Swedish Antique rustick genuine Primitive milking stool pine dated 1862
Located in Boden, SE
Primitive small Milking Stool, with its rustic charm and weathered appearance, this stool embodies the beauty of imperfection, adding a touch of vintage character and warmth to your ...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

Folk Art Primitive Sculptural Log Chair
Located in Round Top, TX
Folk Art, Primitive sculptural log chair. Carved from a single wood log, with hand tools and with a particular orientation, dimensionality and wonderful hand-feel. Created after the ...
Category

Late 20th Century American Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Pair of 20th Century Wabi Sabi 4 Leg Stool, Austria Around 1940s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This pair of 20th century wabi sabi 4 leg stools from Austria is an excellent example of this style. Each piece has a rustic-looking seat made of wood and ...
Category

1940s Austrian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

late 19th Century Wabi Sabi 3 Leg Stool, Austria Around 1890s - 1900s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This late 19th century wabi sabi 3 leg milking stool from Austria is an excellent example of this style. The piece has a rustic-looking seat made of wood and is supported by three le...
Category

Late 19th Century Austrian Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Mid-century rustic "Art Populaire" Folk art armchair from the Auvergne, 1800's
Located in Antwerp, BE
Mid-century; rustic; "Art Populaire"; Folk art; cabinet ;Auvergne; France; 1800s Mid-century rustic "Art Populaire" Folk art armchair. This chair is from the Auvergne, France and we...
Category

Early 1800s French Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Swedish Folk Art, Farmers Stool, Green-Painted Wood, Sweden, Early 19th Century
Located in High Point, NC
A farmers green-painted wooden stool produced in Sweden, early 19th century. Most likely painted in early 20th century.
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Antique Ghanian Ashanti Style Stool with Leopard Carved, Africa
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Carved Antique African Leopard Ashanti Style Stool. Early 20th Century Ghanaian Ashanti style leopard stool. Animal leopard stool hand-carved wood from ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Ghanaian Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Modern Brutalist Wood Tripod Chair Foot Rest Stool, Spain Vintage
Located in Nuernberg, DE
An interesting brutalist stool with hand carved legs and great patina. Great piece of functional sculpture. It is in great vintage condition and is structurally sound. Nice addition ...
Category

1970s Spanish Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

18th Century Rustic country Primitive Folk Art Stool
Located in Boden, SE
18th Century Swedish Primitive Folk Art Chair from Northern Sweden. This charming chair is a true piece of history. It was made by hand in No...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

Antique German Leather & Wood Armchair with Brass Nailhead Details
Located in Nuernberg, DE
beautiful lounge arm chair made of wood and leather with nailhead details. We think this example is from the 1910s, good condition. Minor patina and scratches on the leather, gives t...
Category

1910s German Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Nutwood, Leather

Norwegian Folk Art Armchair in oak, Norway 1880’s.
Located in Valby, 84
This captivating Norwegian folk art armchair, crafted in oak during the 1880s, exemplifies the rich tradition of Scandinavian craftsmanship. The chair features its original painted f...
Category

1880s Norwegian Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Oak, Paint

Hand Crafted Design Solid Wood Stool set, Belgium 1940's
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Hand Crafted Folk Art Design Solid Wood Stool set. Made in Belgium, 1940's period. Solid beech or birch wood constructed square stools. Solid and sturdy low stools. Both are ...
Category

1940s Belgian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Beech

A Traditional Camel Saddle / Stool A Traditional Camel Saddle
Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight
A Traditional Camel Saddle / Stool A Traditional Camel Saddle constructed from several pieces of scratch carved olive wood, tied together with strips of hide to form a saddle stool ...
Category

1960s Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Olive

early 20th Century Wabi Sabi 3 Leg Workshop Stool, Italian Folkart Around 1930s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This early 20th century wabi sabi 3 leg workshop stool from Italy is an excellent example of this style. The piece has a octagonal, rustic-looking seat made of wood and is supported ...
Category

Early 20th Century Italian Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Irish Walnut Bench, Hall Seat with Shoe Storage This is a great piece
Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight
Irish Walnut Bench, Hall Seat with Shoe Storage This is a great piece for a hall way where storage space may be difficult, the bench has high armrests carved with a clover leaf Th...
Category

1920s Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Walnut

Remarkable Folk Art Bench ca 1750 from Jämtland, Sweden
Located in Farsta, SE
Remarkable Folk Art Bench ca 1750 from Jämtland, Sweden Its patina and smooth surfaces, combined with the board, makes it truly beautiful. Sturdy bench with decorative carving on th...
Category

Mid-18th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

19th Century Handmade English Chess Carved Chair
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This amazing handmade English chess chair is hand carved. The chair seat is hand webbing made from hemp. The hand carved figurines and hand carved signatu...
Category

Late 19th Century English Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood, Hemp

Early 20th Century Swivel Piano Stool with Red Velvet Seat, Belgium
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This charming early 20th century four-legged upholstered swivel 'Bobbin' stool in ebonised wood with a red velvet seat is in very good condition. It is...
Category

1930s German Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Unusual 19th Century Windsor Arm Chair With Rush Seat..
Located in Buffalo, NY
Unusual 19th Century Windsor Arm Chair With Rush Seat.. Retains original patina, Great quality,, tight, Wonderful original patina.
Category

1880s English Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Rush, Wood

Swedish Designer, Side Table / Stool, Wood, "Faluröd" Paint, 19th Century
Located in High Point, NC
A wooden side table or stool painted in "faluröd" red pigment, designed and produced in Sweden, 19th century.
Category

19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood, Paint

20th Century Wabi Sabi 4 Leg Stool, Germany circa 1930s or Older
Located in Nuernberg, DE
This 20th century wabi sabi 4 leg workshop stool from Germany is an excellent example of this style. The piece has a round, rustic-looking seat made of wooden planks and is supported by four spindle legs. The stool has a simple, understated design which is typical of wabi sabi furniture...
Category

1930s German Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Antique Circular Hand Carved Indonesian Padouk Wood Ottoman Seat
Located in Vancouver, British Columbia
Beautifully carved Padouk wood boat builder's ottoman with skilled joinery work and fine details. Some chips and cracks present with old upholstery but structurally sound. Solid Pado...
Category

1920s Indonesian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Padouk

Early 20th Century Wabi Sabi 4 Leg Milking Stool Seat, Sweden Around 1910s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Classic 1910s or older, wood stool. Made of wood, hand painted, hand carved. Found at an estate sale in Stockholm, Sweden. Some paint lost and in shabby chic design, but this is old-...
Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Artist-Made Studio Craft Twig Chair + Woven Checkerboard Seat
Located in Round Top, TX
Artisan crafted, sculptural birch twig chair with woven checkerboard seat. We love this unique, one-of-a-kind chair. Procured from an eclectic estate in Northern Colorado, this speci...
Category

Late 20th Century American Folk Art Seating

Materials

Twig, Textile

19th Century Gustavian Stool with Original Paint
Located in Boden, SE
19th century Swedish Folk Art stool from Umea Vasterbotten, Northern Sweden. A very charming stool. The Stool`s seat is made of wood but is upholstered in a beautiful fabric. Scr...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

1800s Scandinavian Stump Chair, Museum-Quality Hand-crafted Folk Art, Norway
Located in Skien, NO
**Step into the Past with a Rare 1800s Norwegian Folk Art Rustic Stool / Stump Chair** Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Norwegian craftsmanship with this extraordinary 19th-century kubbestool, a true masterpiece of folk art. Hand-carved from a single tree stump, this museum-quality piece hails from the heart of Telemark, Norway, and embodies the rustic charm and artistry of a bygone era. **A Visual Symphony of Carved Wildlife** This exceptional stool is adorned with a captivating array of relief carvings depicting a menagerie of animals and birds, each rendered with remarkable detail and character. Marvel at the majestic peacock, the loyal dog, the graceful fish, the enchanting birds, and the regal elephant—each figure telling a story of the artisan's imagination and skill. The original painted surface, with its harmonious palette of red, yellow, green, black, and white, has been lovingly preserved, showcasing the vibrant colors and intricate patterns that define traditional Norwegian folk art. **A Unique Piece of History** What sets this kubbestool apart is its unparalleled uniqueness. No comparable piece has been found in museums or private collections, making it a truly one-of-a-kind treasure. The exquisite patina, born from over a century of use and care, adds depth and character to the stool, enhancing its rustic elegance and historical significance. **A Statement Piece for Your Home** Whether placed in a cozy cabin, a farmhouse, or a country-style interior, this stool brings a touch of timeless charm and cultural heritage to any space. Its functional yet artistic design makes it a versatile addition to your decor, serving as both a conversation-starting accent and a functional seat. **Own a Piece of Norwegian Heritage** This rare and collectible antique is more than just a stool—it’s a piece of history, a work of art, and a testament to the skill and creativity of Norwegian artisans. Elevate your collection with this extraordinary kubbestool, and let it transport you to the rugged landscapes and rich traditions of 19th-century Norway. **Key Features:** - Handcrafted from a single tree stump in Telemark, Norway, circa 1800s - Intricately carved reliefs of a peacock, dog, fish, birds, and elephant - Original painted surface in traditional Norwegian folk art colors - Exceptional patina and museum-quality craftsmanship - A truly unique piece with no known parallels Don’t miss the opportunity to own this remarkable slice of Norwegian heritage—a piece that transcends time and captures the essence of rustic elegance and artistic mastery. Dimensions ca.: Height: 87cm / 34.25 inches (Seat height 45.5cm / 17.91 inches) , Width: 41cm / 16.14 inches, Depth: 38cm / 14.96 inches. Text inside / under with previous owners' name. Wood Tree Stump / Wood Log Chair...
Category

19th Century Norwegian Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine, Wood, Birch

Rare Long Swedish Folk Art Pine Bench
Located in Kramfors, SE
Northern Swedish rare folk art bench made during the mid 1800s. The bench is hand-crafted in Sweden from pine and has been made carefully with attention to detail. The seat is made f...
Category

Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

Folk Art Chair from Finland ca 1930
Located in Farsta, SE
Folk Art chair from Finland ca 1930s Made of Acid-stained Pine Wood Consistent with age and use. I call it mini Sauron throne.. One of a kind! Height: ...
Category

1930s Finnish Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

20th Century Vintage Horn Chair and Ottoman
Located in North Hollywood, CA
This stunning vintage horn chair and ottoman, crafted in the United States during the 20th century, is a true statement piece that brings a touch of rustic elegance to any space. The...
Category

20th Century American Folk Art Seating

Materials

Horn, Cowhide, Wood

Early New England Decorated Childs Chair with Original Rush Seat
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This finely painted and decorated child's chair from New England has wonderful original gilding and fine stenciled splash. The rush seat is original to the chair. There is wear to be...
Category

19th Century American Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

Early, Swedish Allmoge Poker / Stove Chair, Origin: Sweden, circa 1750
Located in New York, NY
Early, Swedish allmoge poker / stove chair, origin: Blekinge, Southern Sweden, circa 1750 Provenance: Private Manor House, Sweden These chairs were u...
Category

18th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Rush, Wood

Pair of Mid-Century French Folk Art Painted Beechwood Chairs, France, 1960s
Located in Almelo, NL
Pair of Mid-Century French Folk Art Painted Beechwood Armchairs, France, 1960s A captivating pair of Mid-Century French folk art armchairs, handcrafted in France during the 1960s. M...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Folk Art Seating

Materials

Beech

French Mid-Century Painted Beechwood Bench, 1960s
Located in Almelo, NL
French Mid-Century Painted Beechwood Bench, 1960s A delightful expression of 1960s French design, this hand-painted bench is a vibrant, sculptural seating piece crafted in beechwood...
Category

1960s French Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Beech

Dutch Wedding Chair, circa 1826
Located in Knutsford, GB
A Dutch Folk Art Turners Armchair from Friesland. Oak- in original dusky red/ pink paint. Lovely patination. Bobbin turning Top splat with carved floral sprays either side of dat...
Category

1820s Dutch Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Oak

Antique Swedish Woven Rattan Basket Chair
Located in Kramfors, SE
Antique woven basket chair from Sweden made around the late 1800s. The chair is an unusual find with an eclectic collection of different weaving s...
Category

Late 19th Century Swedish Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Rattan

Pair of Beautifully Carved Ducks by Dcuk
Located in Pasadena, TX
These ducks are finely carved and decorated. They're made by Dcuk. They're marked on the foot bottom. Duck sizes 19 x 7.5d x 5.5 w 17 x 7.5d x 5.5w
Category

Late 20th Century American Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Antique danish folk table from the 18th century
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Danish antique folk table / bench in patinated pine wood. The table is approx. from the 19th century and serves both as a folk bench or folded out - as a small table. With iron hing...
Category

1950s Danish Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

Rare Mid-19th Century Prussian "Vierlander" Armchair
Located in Greenwich, CT
Rare mid-19th century "Vierlander" armchair, Prussia 1850, with owner's name "Hinrich Eggers", constructed of inlaid fruitwoods and walnut, with turned bone finials, the central back...
Category

1850s German Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Fruitwood, Walnut

Italian 1940s folk art wood and plywood armchair
Located in Milan, IT
Splendid Italian 1940s folk art wood armchair
Category

1940s Italian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood, Plywood

Rabbit covered in Fabric
Located in Pasadena, TX
This is a finely coated Rabbit in fabric. This rabbit is fabric coated. The fabric has a floral print.
Category

Late 20th Century American Folk Art Seating

Materials

Fabric

Scandinavian Country Style Design Red Side Chairs, Sweden 1960's
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Scandinavian Country Style Design Red Lacquer and Rope Side Chair set of 2. Made in Sweden, 1960's period. High gloss red lacquered frame with woven rope seat. Turned and car...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Rope, Beech

Set of 4 chairs in Hazel twigs
Located in PARIS, FR
This set of four chairs, crafted from hazelwood twigs, is a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of late 19th-century France. Each chair showcases the intricate weaving o...
Category

Late 19th Century European Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Twig

Country Ladder Back Chair in Original Paint
Located in Branford, CT
Excellent country ladder-back arm chair with original red paint with black highlights. Northeastern United Staes, circa 1820. Exceptional original condition.
Category

1820s American Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Italian 1930s beautifully hand-crafted oak mountain armchair
Located in Milan, IT
Italian 1930s beautifully hand-crafted oak mountain armchair
Category

1930s Italian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

19th Century Hand-Carved Chair Found in Wester México
Located in Guadalajra, Jal
Detailed hand-carved and colorful chair found in Western México, circa 1900.
Category

Early 20th Century Folk Art Seating

Materials

Wood

Dated 1967 UNIQUE Rosemaling Armchair, Scandinavian Folk Art, Farmhouse / Cabin
Located in Skien, NO
Elevate your space with this stunning handcrafted and painted folk art farmhouse armchair from Telemark, Norway. Expertly crafted from natural pine, this unique piece features a clas...
Category

1960s Norwegian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Pine

Folk Art Rush Side Chair, Austria 1970's
Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN
Vintage Austrian Folk Art Side Chair with Rush Seat. Made in Austria, 1970's. Orange painted beech frame with rush woven seat. The chair has nice spi...
Category

1970s Austrian Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Rush, Beech

1960s Folk Art Rustic Hand Carved Monumental Rocking Horse Chair
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning, full rocking horse chair you could hope to find. This is an ultra-rare opportunity to acquire what i...
Category

1960s American Vintage Folk Art Seating

Materials

Leather, Upholstery, Wood

18th Century English Folk Art Chair
Located in Greenwich, CT
Most unusual English oak armchair with profuse carving to rails, crest and arms and possessing great color and patination. Custom crewelwork cushion over later plank seat, carved to ...
Category

1760s English Antique Folk Art Seating

Materials

Oak

Folk Art seating for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique folk art seating for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage seating created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include seating, folk art, tables and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, softwood and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Folk Art seating made in a specific country, there are Europe, Scandinavia, and Sweden pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original seating, popular names associated with this style include Alix Coco, Berber Tribes of Morocco, Bobby Falwell, and Thomas Chippendale. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for seating differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $251 and tops out at $89,500 while the average work can sell for $2,400.

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