8 ribbonback/chippendale dining chairs
I have 8, 2 with arms and 6 without, dining chairs. I was told they are Chippendale's? I don't see any markings or printing anywhere. Most of the original seats had to be replaced from weather and water damage. I got them at a flea market. The base/wood part is in really good shape. They could use a refinishing, but once i realized how expensive they were I was scared to mess with them anymore. I replaced the "cushion" that im assuming was asbestos, because it smelled and some of them had ants and roaches, with foam. Im not super happy with the way it looks, and was worried I was devaluing them, so i haven't messed with them anymore. All the wood is intact, no legs or spinals are missing, nothing is broken. Original wood seat base is still on them (though I would like to cut new ones), all but one padding and upholstery have been replaced. I Can't seem to find anything exactly like it online, mine have carved lines in the front facing legs and back, the seat sits on top of the wood base and does not cover the front piece, nor does it have any nubs like some of the ones I've seen. Please tell me i didn't ruin them!
Auction House
Yes
Hi Brandy,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
"Chippendale" refers to Thomas Chippendale, who in the mid 18th Century (1754), published his "Thomas Chippendale's Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker’s Director," a series of plates (of line drawings) that defined an era of decoration and interior design that was so influential that it is still being copied to this day. Your chairs were probably made in the 20th century and aren't so rare or historically important that refinishing them will devalue them. If it gets longer use out of the chairs, by all means do whatever you like with them!
You are correct that this particular design is called "ribbon-back" and they come to auction frequently. A set of six chairs (2 arm, 4 side) sold recently for just $100 here : https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/148178269_six-chippendale-style-ribbon-back-chairs
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A vintage set of eight Chippendale style mahogany or walnut "ribbon-back" side chairs
20th Century
Comprising 2 side chairs and 6 side chairs, most lacking seats. Unmarked.
(DIMENSIONS)
CONDITION: Several chairs now without seats; existing slip seats with wear.
PROVENANCE: Acquired at a flea market
$150-250 for the set*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Thank you again for using Mearto. Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns.
~ Delia
