Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A classic 'banker's chair' featuring a steam-bent oak frame, a contoured saddle seat, and a heavy cast-iron tension mechanism. This piece represents the birth of ergonomic office design, built to withstand decades of daily labor in a bustling early-century office.
Story
Before the 1890s, office workers sat on rigid stools. This chair's swivel and tilt mechanism revolutionized white-collar work, allowing a clerk to pivot between a typewriter and a ledger without ever standing up.
Maker / Origin
Companies like the Milwaukee Chair Co. and Sikes were the Herman Miller of their day, perfecting the 'iron-clad' swivel mechanism. They focused on durability and 'scientific' seating, often supplying government offices and prestigious law firms.
Condition & Value
The chair shows a lovely authentic patina with expected wear on the arm-rests and seat edges. The casters appear original, though the wood shows some dryness. Original finish preservation is a plus for collectors. Wear reduces value slightly but adds character.
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.