Painted rocking chair, New England style (?), with grape designs and possibly mahogany arm rests. Still in overall good condition (functional), with some discoloration on the wood.
Description: This is a charming vintage or possibly antique rocking chair in the New England or Hitchcock style, identifiable by its tall spindled back, splayed legs, and hand-painted decorative motifs. The most notable feature is the detailed grapevine painting on the crest rail (headrest) and the fine arrow-like stencil detail on the spindles—hallmarks of 19th-century American decorative furniture, particularly those inspired by the Hitchcock chairs produced in Connecticut.
The armrests appear to be of darker stained hardwood, possibly mahogany or walnut, contrasting the lighter overall tone of the chair. The seat shows signs of wear, including some surface discoloration or fading, but the chair remains structurally sound and fully functional as a rocker.
Estimated Era: Early-to-mid 20th century (likely 1930s–1950s), though stylistically rooted in the early 1800s.
Current Market Value: Depending on maker and condition, similar vintage hand-painted Hitchcock-style rockers typically sell for $125–$300 USD on the secondary market. Chairs with original labels, pristine paint, or confirmed antique origin (pre-1900) may command more—up to $500 or more at auction or with provenance.
Condition: Good vintage condition with wear appropriate to age. Paint is intact with no major chips or cracking visible. Discoloration on the seat does not detract significantly from the visual appeal. No structural damage observed.
Recommendation: If you’re interested in learning more or potentially insuring the piece, a professional appraisal from an expert in American country or folk furniture would be ideal. Look for appraisers accredited by ISA, ASA, or AAA who specialize in decorative arts or Americana. For more precise dating or maker identification, check underneath the seat for any stamp, label, or signature.
Painted New England-Style Rocking Chair with Grape Motif
Description:
This is a charming vintage or possibly antique rocking chair in the New England or Hitchcock style, identifiable by its tall spindled back, splayed legs, and hand-painted decorative motifs. The most notable feature is the detailed grapevine painting on the crest rail (headrest) and the fine arrow-like stencil detail on the spindles—hallmarks of 19th-century American decorative furniture, particularly those inspired by the Hitchcock chairs produced in Connecticut.
The armrests appear to be of darker stained hardwood, possibly mahogany or walnut, contrasting the lighter overall tone of the chair. The seat shows signs of wear, including some surface discoloration or fading, but the chair remains structurally sound and fully functional as a rocker.
Estimated Era:
Early-to-mid 20th century (likely 1930s–1950s), though stylistically rooted in the early 1800s.
Current Market Value:
Depending on maker and condition, similar vintage hand-painted Hitchcock-style rockers typically sell for $125–$300 USD on the secondary market. Chairs with original labels, pristine paint, or confirmed antique origin (pre-1900) may command more—up to $500 or more at auction or with provenance.
Condition:
Good vintage condition with wear appropriate to age. Paint is intact with no major chips or cracking visible. Discoloration on the seat does not detract significantly from the visual appeal. No structural damage observed.
Recommendation:
If you’re interested in learning more or potentially insuring the piece, a professional appraisal from an expert in American country or folk furniture would be ideal. Look for appraisers accredited by ISA, ASA, or AAA who specialize in decorative arts or Americana. For more precise dating or maker identification, check underneath the seat for any stamp, label, or signature.