C. 1870 Antique American Victorian Rococo Revival Mahogany Parlor Chair With Carved Crest, Ball-and-Claw Feet, Tapestry Upholstery

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Description

A superb American Victorian Rococo Revival mahogany parlor chair dating to approximately 1860–1885.

This is a genuine Victorian antique of … Read more A superb American Victorian Rococo Revival mahogany parlor chair dating to approximately 1860–1885.

This is a genuine Victorian antique of exceptional carved quality, representing the height of American decorative furniture making of the period.

The chair features a magnificent carved cresting rail centered by an oval medallion flanked by scrolling acanthus leaves and a shell motif.

Flanking the upholstered back panel are distinctive outswept scrolled ears — a graceful and characteristic Rococo Revival detail that gives the back its elegant tulip silhouette.

The back itself is a single solid sculpted mahogany shield form with beautiful flame figuring visible on the reverse and a scalloped top edge with carved leaf sprigs — a hallmark of the Belter tradition.

The front cabriole legs are boldly carved with acanthus and floral knee brackets and terminate in dramatic ball-and-claw feet with pronounced talons.

The upholstered back panel and generous seat are covered in rich crimson tapestry fabric with gold and sage floral and pomegranate motifs, finished with a twisted cord trim.
The upholstery was professionally redone by Sharry Upholstering Co. of Buffalo, NY, with the original work order tag still attached — a charming piece of provenance.

At 17" seat height, this chair reflects authentic Victorian proportions — lower than modern seating, designed for the formal upright posture of the era.

Its compact 20" × 20" footprint makes it ideal today as a bedroom accent chair, vanity chair, or statement piece in a living room or entryway corner. See less