1970 Virginia House Gold Stenciled Colonial Rocking Chair

Details

Description

Dating to December 1970, this character-rich Virginia House rocking chair is distinguished by an exceptionally well-preserved original gold floral crest … Read more Dating to December 1970, this character-rich Virginia House rocking chair is distinguished by an exceptionally well-preserved original gold floral crest stencil, remarkably crisp and vibrant more than 55 years after it was made.

The elaborate floral stencil crowns a substantial American Colonial-style frame finished in warm brown wood with extensive original gold detailing. Four elongated paddle-shaped back splats are individually outlined with fine gold pinstriping, while additional gold accents highlight the turned posts, spindles, legs and stretchers. Fine gold pinstriping also follows the shaped seat, creating an unusually decorative interpretation of the classic American wooden rocker.

The sculptural frame features tall turned back posts with finials, a shaped double-arched crest, decorative ball elements beneath the crest, four elongated back splats, gracefully curved arms supported by turned spindles, a generously proportioned shaped wood seat, turned legs and stretchers, and traditional curved rockers.

Particularly compelling is the contrast between the beautifully preserved decorative elements and the chair’s authentic timeworn patina. Decades of use have left scratches, scuffs, small gouges and areas of finish wear throughout. The original gold detailing along the armrests has largely worn away where hands naturally rested over the years, while the floral crest stencil and many of the less frequently touched gold details remain exceptionally well preserved.

Rather than an artificially distressed finish, the chair wears its history visibly and honestly. The combination of genuine patina and surviving original decoration gives it the collected character that is difficult to reproduce in newer furniture.

The underside retains its original factory marking reading V.A. House / V.H. Furniture, together with stamped number 1008-09 and date 12/70, documenting Virginia House manufacture and a December 1970 production date.

With its tall proportions, elaborate turned construction, warm wood finish, exceptional gold crest stencil and genuine patina, this rocker has considerable decorative presence and would be equally at home in a traditional, American Classical, farmhouse or thoughtfully collected interior. See less