Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic hoop-back Windsor side chair featuring a woven rush seat and turned 'bamboo' style legs. This piece represents the high-quality Colonial Revival movement, blending 18th-century silhouettes with 20th-century manufacturing precision.
Story
Founded in 1852, Conant Ball became a titan of American design by hiring legends like Russell Wright. This chair was born from a 1930s-50s obsession with early American roots, meant to bring 'Old World' soul into modern suburban homes.
Maker / Origin
The Conant Ball Company was a premier Massachusetts furniture maker known for its 'Modernmates' and 'American Traditional' lines. They were famous for using solid rock maple and birch, often collaborating with industrial designers to redefine what 'American' furniture looked like.
Condition & Value
The wood finish shows some light scuffing consistent with age, particularly on the lower stretchers. The rush seat appears remarkably tight and well-preserved, which is a major plus for value. Condition is good overall.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.