Antique Empire Mahogany Cane Chairs, Set of 6
A full set of true Empire chairs is hard enough to find, but a set with their original handwoven cane seats intact is something altogether different. These date to around 1830–1845, crafted with mahogany flame veneer in the early American Empire period, with elegant sabre legs and curved back rails that show both skill and restraint.
Cane seating wasn’t chosen simply for its beauty. In the Southern states, it was prized for comfort in heat and humidity, allowing air to circulate in a way that heavy upholstery never could. It was practical, breathable, and refined all at once. Imported from Asia and hand split from the rattan vine, each strand of cane was woven entirely by touch, not by sight. Many of the men and women who crafted these seats were blind or visually impaired artisans who learned the pattern by feel alone. Chair caning provided them with independence and their skill gave life to the furniture that now defines an era.
Sets like this rarely survive intact. Through generations of use, most were separated, sold, or altered. The fact that these six have remained together for nearly two centuries speaks volumes about the families who cared for them. Their original cane has aged beautifully, showing the kind of honest wear that only time can give, yet the seats are still sturdy and usable today.
**This set of six is available as shown, and there is also a seventh matching chair in excellent structural condition that will need its seat recaned. If you’re looking to build a larger collection, it can easily be added to the set.
16.5w x 18d x 31.5h
Seat 17.5h
Shipping & Delivery:
Standard U.S. nationwide delivery (excluding Alaska & Hawaii) to your home is FREE. If you prefer in home setup, this is available for an additional fee—please make that selection when ordering. In home delivery is for the ground floor only. While we aim to have delivery scheduled within 3 weeks, shipping times may extend up to 8 weeks depending on carrier availability.
Condition & Vintage Character:
This is a vintage piece of furniture, and as with all vintage items, it may show subtle signs of age. These marks do not affect its structure or functionality and are considered part of its history and character. We believe these details add to its authenticity.
Color Accuracy & Additional Photos:
Colors may vary slightly based on device screens and display settings. If you would like additional photos or details, please feel free to ask—we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase.
Sales & Policies:
All sales are final. If an order is canceled before shipment, a 25% restocking fee will apply.
We are not responsible for any damage that may occur during transportation or delivery. Please inspect your piece carefully upon arrival and report any damages immediately to the shipping carrier in order to file a claim.
A full set of true Empire chairs is hard enough to find, but a set with their original handwoven cane seats intact is something altogether different. These date to around 1830–1845, crafted with mahogany flame veneer in the early American Empire period, with elegant sabre legs and curved back rails that show both skill and restraint.
Cane seating wasn’t chosen simply for its beauty. In the Southern states, it was prized for comfort in heat and humidity, allowing air to circulate in a way that heavy upholstery never could. It was practical, breathable, and refined all at once. Imported from Asia and hand split from the rattan vine, each strand of cane was woven entirely by touch, not by sight. Many of the men and women who crafted these seats were blind or visually impaired artisans who learned the pattern by feel alone. Chair caning provided them with independence and their skill gave life to the furniture that now defines an era.
Sets like this rarely survive intact. Through generations of use, most were separated, sold, or altered. The fact that these six have remained together for nearly two centuries speaks volumes about the families who cared for them. Their original cane has aged beautifully, showing the kind of honest wear that only time can give, yet the seats are still sturdy and usable today.
**This set of six is available as shown, and there is also a seventh matching chair in excellent structural condition that will need its seat recaned. If you’re looking to build a larger collection, it can easily be added to the set.
16.5w x 18d x 31.5h
Seat 17.5h
Shipping & Delivery:
Standard U.S. nationwide delivery (excluding Alaska & Hawaii) to your home is FREE. If you prefer in home setup, this is available for an additional fee—please make that selection when ordering. In home delivery is for the ground floor only. While we aim to have delivery scheduled within 3 weeks, shipping times may extend up to 8 weeks depending on carrier availability.
Condition & Vintage Character:
This is a vintage piece of furniture, and as with all vintage items, it may show subtle signs of age. These marks do not affect its structure or functionality and are considered part of its history and character. We believe these details add to its authenticity.
Color Accuracy & Additional Photos:
Colors may vary slightly based on device screens and display settings. If you would like additional photos or details, please feel free to ask—we want you to feel completely confident in your purchase.
Sales & Policies:
All sales are final. If an order is canceled before shipment, a 25% restocking fee will apply.
We are not responsible for any damage that may occur during transportation or delivery. Please inspect your piece carefully upon arrival and report any damages immediately to the shipping carrier in order to file a claim.
