Overview
A classic American Morris chair featuring a reclining back mechanism and distinctive carved lion-head arm terminals.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A classic American Morris chair featuring a reclining back mechanism and distinctive carved lion-head arm terminals.
Story
William Morris, the father of the Arts & Crafts movement, believed that a home should contain nothing that is not known to be useful or believed to be beautiful; this chair was the ultimate realization of that philosophy.
Maker / Origin
While many were produced by the Royal Chair Company or as premiums for the Larkin Soap Company, these chairs were the backbone of the Grand Rapids furniture industry.
Condition & Value
The oak frame appears structurally sound with a lovely aged patina, though there is expected wear on the armrests from decades of use. The upholstery is not original and appears to be a mid-to-late 20th-century addition. The presence of the original adjustment rod is a major plus for value.
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.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375