C. 1930 Shell Wingback Armchair

$375.00

Picture an elegant early 1900s home, where the parlor or library was the heart of social life. This is the kind of chair you would have found there: positioned near a fireplace to catch the warmth, angled just right for reading a book, enjoying quiet conversation, or taking in the company of guests. The winged sides offered a shield from drafts, while the dramatic, shell shaped back added both sculptural beauty and a sense of being gently enclosed.

Its design draws directly from the Chippendale style of the mid 18th century, with carved cabriole legs and claw and ball feet, a look that had become synonymous with refinement. By the early 20th century, furniture makers revived these classic details but added new twists, like the fan shaped channeling on the back, creating a piece that balanced historical elegance with modern comfort.

We believe the damask upholstery is original, or if not, replaced very early in its life. Damask was the fabric of choice for such a chair, luxurious in appearance, yet durable enough to withstand decades of use without losing its pattern or texture. The fact that this fabric has lasted more than a century with no rips or major stains speaks volumes about its quality and the care this chair has received.

Beneath the seat cushion lies thick, true cotton batting and original coil springs still wrapped in early wheat sacking, a construction method rarely seen today. This combination gives the chair its substantial weight and sturdiness while making it remarkably comfortable. It is the kind of piece that was equally at home in a gentleman’s study or a lady’s parlor, formal enough to impress, yet inviting enough to become a favorite spot to sit.

Whether you are drawn to it for its craftsmanship, its history, or its undeniable presence, this chair brings the grace and comfort of a bygone era into any space today.

Chair

31w x 33d x 38h

Seat

20w x 22d x 20h

Shipping & Delivery:

Standard U.S. nationwide delivery (excluding Alaska & Hawaii) to your home is FREE. If you prefer white glove service with in-home setup, this is available for an additional fee—please contact us before purchasing to add this service to your order. 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.

Picture an elegant early 1900s home, where the parlor or library was the heart of social life. This is the kind of chair you would have found there: positioned near a fireplace to catch the warmth, angled just right for reading a book, enjoying quiet conversation, or taking in the company of guests. The winged sides offered a shield from drafts, while the dramatic, shell shaped back added both sculptural beauty and a sense of being gently enclosed.

Its design draws directly from the Chippendale style of the mid 18th century, with carved cabriole legs and claw and ball feet, a look that had become synonymous with refinement. By the early 20th century, furniture makers revived these classic details but added new twists, like the fan shaped channeling on the back, creating a piece that balanced historical elegance with modern comfort.

We believe the damask upholstery is original, or if not, replaced very early in its life. Damask was the fabric of choice for such a chair, luxurious in appearance, yet durable enough to withstand decades of use without losing its pattern or texture. The fact that this fabric has lasted more than a century with no rips or major stains speaks volumes about its quality and the care this chair has received.

Beneath the seat cushion lies thick, true cotton batting and original coil springs still wrapped in early wheat sacking, a construction method rarely seen today. This combination gives the chair its substantial weight and sturdiness while making it remarkably comfortable. It is the kind of piece that was equally at home in a gentleman’s study or a lady’s parlor, formal enough to impress, yet inviting enough to become a favorite spot to sit.

Whether you are drawn to it for its craftsmanship, its history, or its undeniable presence, this chair brings the grace and comfort of a bygone era into any space today.

Chair

31w x 33d x 38h

Seat

20w x 22d x 20h

Shipping & Delivery:

Standard U.S. nationwide delivery (excluding Alaska & Hawaii) to your home is FREE. If you prefer white glove service with in-home setup, this is available for an additional fee—please contact us before purchasing to add this service to your order. 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.