The wingback chair (grandfather or saddle cheek chair) is a variation of an easy or club chair distinguished by “wings” affixed to its back. The wingback chair is a tall-backed, thickly upholstered chair, with “wings” that shelter the occupant from drafts. The wings of the wingback chair sometimes extend down to the armrests and trap heat from a nearby fireplace.
What are the Classifications of Wingback Chairs?
There are 2 primary classifications of wingback chairs.
- Flat wingback chairs. A flat wingback chair has straight “wings” that come from the back of the chair and continue down its sides.
- Scroll wingback chairs. A scroll wingback chair has rounded “wings” that represent a more traditional design.
Bat and butterfly wings are other styles of a wingback chair.
History of the Wingback Chair?
In England, wingback chairs have been in use since the 1600s. The wingback chair was perfect for the frigid climate of the nation because it can hold heat it. The wingback chair gained popularity in 1720 and was typically built of wood with flat, broad arms.
Wingback chairs were upholstered at the start of the 18th century to increase comfort. Wingback chairs were padded with horsehair in the 19th century to add extra cushioning. Some wingback chairs were made to have a French contemporary design by using velvet or needlework. Georgian wingback chairs featured ornate embellishments and vivid colors.
The wingback chair was altered by the French by adding a flat back. This style, known as the Bergère, was intended to enhance its comfort capabilities by providing it with a wider and deeper seat.
During the 18th century, wingback chairs were modified by renowned English furniture manufacturer George Hepplewhite by lowering the seat. By creating enormous “wings” with scrolled arms, renowned English cabinet maker Thomas Chippendale enhanced the wingback chair’s aesthetic appeal. Eventually, the Netherlands and America adopted the wingback chair design. The wingback chair gained its nickname “grandfather chair” because it was frequently used by the elderly or as an easy chair in bedrooms instead of its customary use in living or sitting rooms.
Why Get a Wingback Chair?
The wingback chair radiates style in a room. Modern designs come in a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics, so they serve as a decorative element or accent piece in a space. The wingback chair is useful for a variety of activities, including reading, socializing, and resting. The wingback chair is perfect in the drawing room, study, living room, or bedroom.
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Using a Wingback Chair At Home?
Understand the wingback chair’s function in your room. Scroll wingback chairs are excellent for enhancing the appearance of a space and adding a classic and elegant feel. Wingback chairs with deep seats are ideal for reading and relaxing.
Wingback chairs are useful and fashionable pieces of furniture that are positioned in corners of rooms. Wingback chairs are primarily made for comfort and are the ideal seating furniture for lounging and resting.
Bold, colorful, patterned wingback chairs make excellent accent pieces or ornamental pieces of furniture, especially for homes with neutral colors.
