19th Century Early American Primitive Child's Ladderback Chair With Woven Leather Seat

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What a rare and exceptionally charming piece of 19th century Americana!

This antique Shaker-style ladderback child's chair is estimated to … Read more What a rare and exceptionally charming piece of 19th century Americana!

This antique Shaker-style ladderback child's chair is estimated to have been bench-made in the U.S. between 1820-1860. The leather seat is made of hand-cut leather straps in a basket weave pattern, and is highly desirable as it was a less common material choice for primitive seating. The straps are wrapped entirely around the seat rails to form a double-thick layer.

The two-slat backrest showcases authentic 19th century woodworking details, specifically hand-carving with slight asymmetries and subtle tool marks left by a drawknife or hand plane.

It's distinctive patina also shows a rich accumulation of grime and hand oils darkening the crevices and corners, contrasting with the lighter, naturally worn areas. The wood grain pattern suggests use of old-growth American hardwood such as maple, birch or ash.

It also has mortise-and-tenon joints and pegged (trunnel) construction. Some of the pegs are round while others are not, which is another indicator of authentic, pre-industrial craftsmanship.

There are no modern metal brackets or flat-head screws throughout. See less