Hi Joe,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

A combination of practicality, comfort, affordability, and timeless design are the hallmarks of ladderback chairs, which are characterized by a series of horizontal slats across the back, resembling the rungs of a ladder. The style originated in medieval Europe and became especially popular in rural homes in countries such as England, France, and later colonial United States.

The profile of these chairs is English in character and from the construction elements of these chairs, I can tell that they were made in the late 19th or early 20th Century rather than in the 17th, 18th or early 19th Century.

The market isn't as particular these days as it once was and more people are buying for a "look" rather than for historically important objects. What that means is that buyers don't care so much if a chair is first, second or later periods as long as they are functional and attractive.

These chairs usually sell for between $75and $125 each, though sets of more than four can command a premium; I would expect this pair to sell at auction for between $150 and $250. Note that private sellers or antiques dealers would be asking a higher retail price for ones they are selling, either in a brick-and-mortar shop or online platform.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique pair of English style oak ladderback side chairs
late 19th or early 20th Century
Each with faceted-section stiles with pointed ears flanking five shaped "ladder" slats, over a trapezoidal seat frame woven with cording, on faceted legs joined by box stretcher.
49 inches overall height
CONDITION: Wear appears to be commensurate with age and use
PROVENANCE: Acquired at a secondhand store
$ 150-250 for the pair*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia