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AI Appraisal
Description
Simple wood rocking chair with "1814" carved into the underside of the seat (see pictures). One of the railings is broken where it connects to the back of the seat (see picture) but is otherwise in fair to good condition.
Category
American Furniture
Medium
Hardwood - species not known
Distinguishing marks
Carved "1814" on bottom of chair
Condition
Fair
Size and dimensions of this item
Floor to top of back 37", floor to seat front 16" (people were obviously smaller back then!), seat depth 16", seat width 17", rocker length 29"
Date Period
1814
Weight
under 10 pounds
History
Chair was part of furnishings found in my grandfathers house in Newtown, CT where he lived from approximately the 1940's to 1960s. The house, built in the 18th century was located near a "Bradley chair factory" which operated during the early 19th century (https://www.newtownbee.com/04252008/the-people-and-stories-behind-newtowns-road-names-part-3/). I have no evidence or documentation that the chair came from that factory, but would not be surprised if there was a connection. There is a chalk marking on the bottom that appears to be "$27.00". Not sure if or when the chair was bought or sold for that price, if at all.
Price Paid (If known)
N/A
Collectors with this item
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Collector Discussion
Do you recognize this piece? Collectors often identify maker marks, share comparable sales, or suggest additional research steps.
Empire Revival Rocker
Your Rocker is actually an Empire revival piece made during the last quarter of the 19th Century (1875-1900). These were mass produced all over the Eastern USA, the biggest center of production being Grand Rapids Michigan.
Thank you. I guess I was…
Thank you. I guess I was thrown off by the 1814 carved on the underside.
Unless I hear differently, I'm guessing it's not worth much. Garage sale here we come!
In reply to Empire Revival Rocker by Lovejoy
If it's truly from 1875-1900…
In reply to Thank you. I guess I was… by jtdiamond09
Thanks. I appreciate the…
Thanks. I appreciate the advice. That seems like a more prudent thing to do. Would you recommend bringing it to an antique furniture dealer or are online sites the way to go?
In reply to If it's truly from 1875-1900… by Joseph
It certainly wouldn't hurt…
In reply to Thanks. I appreciate the… by jtdiamond09
Sadly no great value, these…
Sadly no great value, these routinely sell at auction now for under $50.00. They last peaked in value in the early 1990's at about $175.00.
In reply to If it's truly from 1875-1900… by Joseph