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Centuries ago, the wingback chair, also known as the fireside chair, emerged from modest origins and has since endured the test of time, retaining its timeless elegance as a captivating addition to any living room.
Let's transport ourselves to the late 1600s, imagining the lives of the privileged gentry who found themselves seated in grand yet breezy rooms. These rooms boasted high ceilings, timber, or stone floors, and perhaps a couple of large fireplaces serving as the sole source of warmth. While it may evoke a sense of romanticism, the reality of enduring harsh English winters was far from idyllic. Enter the wingback chair, skilfully designed to combat these conditions. Its wings, extending from the sides, acted as shields against chilling drafts, whilst providing protection from the intense heat emanating from the roaring fireplaces.
Historical records indicate that the original wingback chairs featured a timber structure with only a cushioned seat for added comfort. However, during the Restoration period, between 1660 and 1680, the wingback chair gained significant popularity and enhanced comfort. This era witnessed remarkable advancements in English cabinetmaking, resulting in the creation of innovative furniture pieces, including daybeds and an upholstered armchair commonly referred to as the sleeping chair and the wingback chair may very well be a descendant.
While it drew inspiration from its predecessor, the wingback chair took on a distinct form with curvaceous lines and a more feminine appearance, deviating from the box-like structure of the sleeping chair. The incorporation of curves, intricate carvings, and sumptuous upholstery stood in stark contrast to the sharp, angular, and often austere styles of Puritan furniture prevalent in England following Cromwell's rule. In those times, decoration and luxury were frowned upon, and utility took precedence over comfort.
WINGBACK CHAIR STYLES
The wingback chair found favour among colonial Americans and, in subsequent centuries, Nordic countries embraced and adapted it, infusing their distinctive Scandinavian approach to design. One of the most renowned modern interpretations of the wingback chair is the Egg Chair, created in 1958 by Danish designer Arne Jacobsen. Upholstered in a textured fabric or smooth leather, it featured a chrome x-base and cocooned the sitter, reminiscent of a chicken in its egg.
Throughout its history, the wingback chair has exhibited a multitude of style variations. These range from the size of the wings, the chosen fabric, and the detailing techniques like buttoning, nailing, and carving. In fact, the variations can be so extensive that two wingback chairs may bear little resemblance to each other.
Even today, the Queen Anne style remains one of the most beloved iterations of the wingback chair. Originating in the early 18th century, this style is characterized by simple, carefully curved lines and minimal ornamentation or carving.
A wingback chair could just be the perfect choice for your living room, library or reading nook to keep you warm, safe, and secure – and it’s no longer necessary to have a fireplace.
Our Favourite Wingbacks
