Rocking chairs have been a beloved piece of furniture for centuries, evoking feelings of comfort, relaxation, and nostalgia. For antique collectors and enthusiasts, the allure of a well-crafted vintage rocker is hard to resist. But with so many different styles produced over the years, how can you accurately identify an antique rocking chair? In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll delve into the history of rocking chairs, explore the most prominent antique styles, and provide expert tips for identifying, valuing, and purchasing these timeless treasures.
The Origins and Evolution of Rocking Chairs
The concept of a rocking chair—a seat on curved bands or runners that allows the occupant to gently sway back and forth—originated in the early 18th century in North America. The earliest known reference to a rocking chair comes from a 1742 inventory of the estate of Colonel William Byrd II of Virginia, which listed a "chair with rockers" valued at 25 shillings.
Some historians credit the invention of the rocking chair to Benjamin Franklin, who is said to have added rockers to a standard armchair in the 1760s. However, evidence suggests that rocking chairs were already being crafted by colonial furniture makers of the time, such as Philadelphia cabinetmaker Francis Trumble, who advertised "nurse rockers" in the 1760s.
These early rockers were often simple adaptations of existing chair designs, such as the Windsor chair or ladder-back chair, with the addition of curved rockers. The chairs were typically made from local hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory, with pine or poplar used for the seats.
Rocking chairs gained widespread popularity in the 19th century, particularly in the United States. They became a staple on front porches and in nurseries, valued for their soothing motion and comfortable design. The advent of mass production techniques and the use of new materials like wicker and bentwood allowed for a greater variety of styles and increased accessibility for the growing middle class.
According to a survey by the Smithsonian Institution, rocking chairs were found in nearly 60% of American households by the mid-19th century, a testament to their enduring appeal and practicality.
Common Antique Rocking Chair Styles
Over the years, furniture makers have created numerous distinct rocking chair styles, each with its own characteristics and historical significance. Here are some of the most prominent antique rocker styles you‘re likely to encounter:
Windsor Rocking Chairs
Windsor rockers, adapted from the classic Windsor chair design, were popular from the late 18th century through the 19th century. Characterized by a solid wood seat with spindle back and legs, these chairs often featured a comb-back or continuous-bow back. Windsor rockers were typically made from a mix of woods, with the seat in pine or poplar and the spindles and legs in hickory or maple.
One notable example is the sack-back Windsor rocker, which features a tall, slightly reclined back with nine spindles and a curved, steam-bent crest rail. These chairs were particularly popular in the Mid-Atlantic states from 1790-1820.
Boston Rocking Chairs
The Boston rocker, also known as the Salem rocker or New England rocker, was a popular style in the early-to-mid 19th century. These chairs featured a rolled seat, curved back with horizontal slats, and turned front legs. They were often made from oak or maple and finished with a dark stain or paint.
The Salem rocker, a variant named after the Massachusetts city where it originated, is distinguished by its graceful, S-shaped back and arms, as well as its delicate turnings and carvings. These chairs were produced from around 1810-1840 and are highly sought-after by collectors.
Wicker Rocking Chairs
Wicker rocking chairs, made from woven rattan or other natural fibers, gained popularity in the late 19th century. These lightweight, airy chairs were well-suited for porches and sunrooms. Victorian-era wicker rockers often featured intricate woven patterns and curving, asymmetrical designs influenced by the Art Nouveau movement.
One of the most famous wicker rocking chair designs is the "Kennedy Rocker," a sturdy, high-backed model favored by President John F. Kennedy for his chronic back pain. After his assassination in 1963, sales of this style surged, with the Troutman Chair Company producing over 250,000 Kennedy Rockers in the following years.
Pressed-Back Rocking Chairs
Pressed-back rockers, also known as sewing rockers, were a mass-produced style common in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These chairs featured a solid wood seat and a steam-bent backrest with a "pressed" decorative design, usually in an oak leaf or acorn pattern. They were often made from oak and finished with a golden oak stain.
The Larkin Soap Company famously offered pressed-back rockers as premiums for customers who purchased their products, contributing to the style‘s ubiquity in American households of the era.
Bentwood Rocking Chairs
Bentwood rocking chairs, invented by Michael Thonet in the 1860s, were made from steamed and bent beech wood, resulting in a lightweight, graceful design. The iconic No. 10 Thonet rocker, with its curved back and seat, remains a highly sought-after antique piece.
Thonet‘s bentwood designs influenced numerous other makers, such as Jacob & Josef Kohn and the Gebrüder Thonet company, leading to a proliferation of bentwood rocking chair styles in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A prime example is the No. 1 Kohn rocker, which features a bentwood frame with a caned seat and back, and was exhibited at the 1867 Paris World‘s Fair.
Platform Rocking Chairs
Platform rockers, introduced in the late 19th century, featured a stationary base with a spring-loaded, rocking seat. This design allowed for a smooth rocking motion without damaging flooring. Platform rockers often incorporated upholstery and padded armrests for added comfort.
One notable platform rocker style is the "Lincoln Rocker," named after President Abraham Lincoln, who reportedly owned several platform rockers and found them helpful for his chronic back pain. These chairs, manufactured by companies like the Philadelphia Chair Company and the Howe Machine Company, were popular from the 1850s through the early 20th century.
Other Notable Antique Rocking Chair Styles
- Shaker Rocking Chairs: Simple, functional designs with straight lines and minimal ornamentation, reflecting the Shaker philosophy of practicality and craftsmanship. Produced by Shaker communities in the late 18th and 19th centuries.
- Mission Oak Rocking Chairs: Influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century, these chairs featured straight lines, slat backs, and exposed joinery. Often made from quarter-sawn oak with a dark, matte finish.
- Victorian Parlor Rockers: Elaborate, upholstered rocking chairs with carved and turned wood frames, reflecting the opulence and grandeur of the Victorian era. Popular in the mid-to-late 19th century.
Identifying Antique vs. Vintage vs. Reproduction Rocking Chairs
When assessing a rocking chair, it‘s important to determine whether it is a true antique (100+ years old), vintage (less than 100 years old), or a more recent reproduction. Here are some key factors to consider:
Signs of Age
Genuine antique rocking chairs will show signs of natural wear and age, such as:
- Worn or crackled finish
- Slight warping or shrinkage of the wood
- Oxidation of metal hardware
- Hand-cut joinery (e.g., mortise-and-tenon, dovetail joints)
- Uneven or hand-planed surfaces
- Signs of repairs or replaced parts consistent with the chair‘s age
Maker‘s Marks and Labels
Many antique rocking chairs will have a maker‘s mark, label, or stamped logo on the underside of the seat or on a rear leg. Some notable makers to look for include:
- Thonet (bentwood rockers)
- J.W. Meeker (pressed-back rockers)
- Heywood-Wakefield (wicker and rattan rockers)
- S. Bent & Bros. (bentwood and windsor rockers)
- P. Derby & Co. (Boston rockers)
- Lambert Hitchcock (Hitchcock rockers)
Research these marks to determine the manufacturer and approximate production date. Keep in mind that some marks may have faded or been removed over time.
Materials and Construction
Assess the materials used in the chair‘s construction:
- Antique rockers were typically made from solid hardwoods like oak, maple, walnut, or mahogany.
- Later vintage and reproduction pieces may use plywood, laminated wood, or engineered wood products.
- Antique chairs may feature hand-woven caning, rush seating, leather, or original fabric upholstery.
- Inspect the joinery for signs of hand craftsmanship or machine production.
Style and Design
Compare the chair‘s style and design to known antique examples:
- Pay attention to the shape of the backrest, arms, and legs, as well as any decorative elements or upholstery.
- Note any inconsistencies or anachronisms in the design that may indicate a later reproduction.
- Consult reference books, online resources, and antique furniture experts to familiarize yourself with the characteristics of specific antique styles.
Factors Affecting an Antique Rocking Chair‘s Value
Several key factors influence the value of an antique rocking chair:
Rarity and Desirability of Style
Some antique rocking chair styles are rarer or more sought-after by collectors, such as:
- Salem rockers
- Shaker rockers
- No. 10 Thonet bentwood rockers
- Victorian parlor rockers with original upholstery
- Kennedy-style wicker rockers
These chairs may command higher prices due to their scarcity and historical significance. For example, a rare Shaker No. 7 rocking chair sold at a Sotheby‘s auction in 2014 for $87,500, setting a record for Shaker furniture.
Age and Provenance
Generally, older rocking chairs are more valuable, particularly those dating to the 18th or early 19th centuries. Chairs with a documented history of ownership or association with notable figures can also increase in value.
For instance, a Kennedy Rocker used by President John F. Kennedy sold at a Heritage Auctions sale in 2015 for $87,500, far exceeding the typical price range for this style due to its historical provenance.
Condition and Originality
A rocking chair in excellent original condition, with minimal wear or damage, will be more valuable than one requiring extensive restoration. Chairs with original finishes, upholstery, and hardware are more desirable to collectors than those with later replacements or alterations.
According to antique furniture expert Dr. Lori Verderame, a rocking chair in pristine condition can command prices up to 50% higher than a comparable chair with significant wear or repairs.
Craftsmanship and Materials
Rocking chairs exhibiting exceptional craftsmanship, such as intricate carving, inlay work, or precise joinery, may command higher prices. Chairs made from premium materials like solid mahogany, rosewood, or figured maple are also more valuable than those made from less expensive woods.
A prime example is the Sam Maloof rocking chair, a modern classic known for its sculptural form and impeccable craftsmanship. Maloof rockers have sold at auction for prices ranging from $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the specific design and materials used.
Tips for Buying Antique Rocking Chairs
When shopping for an antique rocking chair, consider the following tips:
- Educate yourself on different styles and their identifying characteristics to ensure you‘re getting an authentic piece.
- Carefully inspect the chair for signs of damage, repairs, or alterations. Ask the seller about any restoration work that has been done.
- Request detailed photos and condition reports when buying online or from a distant seller.
- Check for stability and structural integrity by gently rocking the chair and testing for wobbling or creaking.
- Purchase from reputable dealers or auction houses that specialize in antique furniture and offer guarantees of authenticity.
- Consider the chair‘s intended use – if you plan to actively use it, look for one in sturdy condition. If purely for display, some wear may be acceptable.
- Don‘t be afraid to negotiate price, particularly if the chair requires restoration or has undisclosed damage.
Caring for Your Antique Rocking Chair
To preserve your antique rocking chair for future generations, follow these basic care guidelines:
- Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent buildup of dirt and debris.
- Avoid placing the chair in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can cause fading and drying of the wood and upholstery.
- Maintain a stable humidity level in the room (between 40-50%) to prevent excessive expansion or contraction of the wood.
- Use coasters under cups or glasses to avoid water damage and stains.
- If upholstery becomes soiled, spot clean with a mild detergent and damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.
- For significant repairs or restoration, consult a professional specializing in antique furniture to maintain the chair‘s value and integrity.
- Consider applying a protective wax or oil finish to the wood to help preserve its luster and prevent drying or cracking.
Antique rocking chairs are more than just functional furniture pieces – they are tangible connections to the past, each with its own unique story. By understanding the various styles, identifying characteristics, and valuation factors, you can confidently navigate the world of antique rockers and find the perfect chair to add to your collection or grace your home. With proper care and appreciation, these timeless treasures can continue to provide comfort and joy for generations to come.
