Lot #68: Antique Mid-Victorian Button-Tufted Walnut Spoon-Back Parlor Armchair, c. 1860–1870.

1 of 2 in this auction. See next lot for matching to pair. An exceptional example of high-Victorian craftsmanship, this gentleman’s parlor armchair features a beautifully proportioned, spoon-shaped balloon back. The rich, dark walnut show-wood frame is crowned by a magnificent, deeply carved crest rail depicting three prominent blooming roses intertwined with delicate foliage. The chair is fully upholstered in an elegant, contemporary cream fabric with a subtle, stylized quilted flowerhead motif, finished with clean piping that traces the graceful contours of the frame. The sweeping, padded open armrests lead down into beautifully executed, scroll-carved knuckles resting atop classic cabriole front legs featuring relief floral-knee carvings. The piece retains excellent mobility, resting on its original articulated brass casters at the front and smoothly splayed legs at the rear. A quintessential statement piece for collectors of Rococo Revival or period parlor furniture. Style: Victorian / Rococo RevivalPeriod: Circa 1860–1870Materials: Solid Walnut Frame; Cream and taupe patterned fabric upholstery; Brass Casters The "Spoon-Back" Silhouette: Popularized in England and North America during the mid-19th century, the spoon-back or balloon-back style was designed to comfortably cradle the sitter. High-end variations like this one feature an open arm ("cabriolet") design to ease pressure on voluminous 19th-century garments. Design & Workshop Origin: Parlor chairs from this era were generally crafted by elite regional cabinetmakers mimicking the influential French Rococo styles favored by London workshops. While single pieces rarely bear stamps unless commissioned by legendary makers like John Henry Belter or Mitchell & Rammelsberg, the profound depth and multi-dimensional quality of the rose cresting indicate a high-caliber workshop rather than flat machine-pressed furniture. The inclusion of original brass casters rather than later ceramic ones further marks this as an upper-tier early production. PICKUP NOTE: Access Storage - ample parking. Do not go to the front office - Please come to loading dock ramps and see our team member with your lot numbers/ invoice. Dimensions: Dimensions: 27" W x 22" D x 37" H Pickup category timeslot {A}