1890's Victorian Swivel Adjustable Height Oak Piano Stool with Glass Ball Feet

By jjohn22, 25 April, 2025
Description

This piano stool is adjustable and swivels in good working condition. The glass ball feet are intact without any cracks or damage but you do see bubbles inside the glass of 3 of the 4 feet (see photos). There is a tiny bit of paint on the piano seat. The diameter of the seat is 14 inches (36 cm). 

 

Category
Furniture
Medium
Oak wood and glass ball feet
Distinguishing marks
None that I can see.
Condition
Good
Size and dimensions of this item
Adjustable height, seat diameter is 14 inches (36 cm).
Date Period
1890's most likely
Weight
14 lbs.
History
Providence: This piano bench belonged to my Great Grandmother who died in 1972 at 102 years old. She traveled with her parents by covered wagon from Chicago to Kansas during the great migration in the 1880's. She left it to me.
For Sale?
No
Photos

NaidaTheCollector

5 hours 14 min ago

Item Description:

This is an authentic late 19th-century Victorian piano stool, commonly dated to the 1880s–1890s, crafted from oak wood and featuring cast iron claw feet gripping clear glass balls (a popular Eastlake-style element). The seat swivels and is height-adjustable via a threaded metal shaft, which is fully intact and operational.

Notable Features:

  • Seat Diameter: 14 inches (36 cm)
  • Construction: Solid oak, turned legs, metal claw feet with intact glass balls
  • Finish: Original, but heavily worn and naturally aged with original varnish
  • Condition: Structurally solid with finish wear and natural patina consistent with age; the wear enhances its antique appeal

Historical Context:

This stool represents a period when parlor instruments like pianos were central to family life, especially during the Victorian era. Your provenance—a direct family link dating back to covered wagon migration and early Kansas settlement—is highly valuable in establishing authenticity and sentimental heritage. The use of glass ball feet started around the 1870s and remained popular through the 1910s.

Valuation Estimate (as of 2025):

  • Low Market Estimate: $100–$125 (as-is, in areas with lower demand)
  • Mid Market Estimate: $150–$200 (average market value for unrestored examples)
  • High Market Estimate: $250–$300 (in areas with strong demand or with partial restoration)

Restored stools with refinished wood and polished glass balls can sell for $300–$400+ on specialized antique furniture platforms or auctions.

Recommendations:

  • Do not over-restore. Retaining original hardware, finish, and wear is important to collectors.
  • Preserve provenance. Document the oral history and lineage (e.g., names, locations, dates) for added resale or heirloom value.
  • Professional Appraisal? Only necessary if you're insuring a larger antique collection or selling through an auction house.
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