Description
Antique Mahogany Chippendale Ribbon Back Side Chair, Massachusetts, Circa 1800
An exceptionally refined and elegant example of late 18th to early 19th-century Massachusetts cabinetmaking, this mahogany Chippendale ribbon back side chair represents one of the most graceful and coveted forms in the entire American Chippendale canon. The ribbon back - with its intricately pierced and interlaced splat evoking the flowing quality of tied ribbon - is among the most technically demanding patterns a period chairmaker could attempt, and this example carries it off with confidence and artistry.
The beautifully scalloped crest rail crowns the composition with a light, feminine touch, its gentle curves echoing the fluidity of the ribbon splat below and lifting the overall design into something truly special. The combination of the pierced ribbon splat and scalloped crest rail marks this as the work of a skilled Massachusetts craftsman working at the peak of the Chippendale tradition, at the very moment it was giving way to the emerging Federal style.
The upholstered seat presents with estate soiling and invites fresh upholstery - a simple transformation that will allow the new owner to tailor the chair beautifully to their own interior. All wear is honest and consistent with the chair's more than two centuries of life.
A rare and desirable form that serious collectors of New England furniture will immediately recognize and appreciate.
Dimensions: 21"W * 18"D * 38"H * 18" seat height
Material: Mahogany
Details: Pierced ribbon back splat, scalloped crest rail, upholstered seat
Origin: Massachusetts, Circa 1800
Condition: Estate soiling to upholstered seat; wear consistent with age and use
Condition:
Alterations: Restored
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Condition: Estate soiling to upholstered seat; wear consistent with age and use, refinished.
Origin:
United States
Creator:
Styled After: Thomas Chippendale
Materials & Techniques:
Mahogany
Details:
Country of Origin: United States
Seat Height: 18.0in
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Number of Seats: 1
An exceptionally refined and elegant example of late 18th to early 19th-century Massachusetts cabinetmaking, this mahogany Chippendale ribbon back side chair represents one of the most graceful and coveted forms in the entire American Chippendale canon. The ribbon back - with its intricately pierced and interlaced splat evoking the flowing quality of tied ribbon - is among the most technically demanding patterns a period chairmaker could attempt, and this example carries it off with confidence and artistry.
The beautifully scalloped crest rail crowns the composition with a light, feminine touch, its gentle curves echoing the fluidity of the ribbon splat below and lifting the overall design into something truly special. The combination of the pierced ribbon splat and scalloped crest rail marks this as the work of a skilled Massachusetts craftsman working at the peak of the Chippendale tradition, at the very moment it was giving way to the emerging Federal style.
The upholstered seat presents with estate soiling and invites fresh upholstery - a simple transformation that will allow the new owner to tailor the chair beautifully to their own interior. All wear is honest and consistent with the chair's more than two centuries of life.
A rare and desirable form that serious collectors of New England furniture will immediately recognize and appreciate.
Dimensions: 21"W * 18"D * 38"H * 18" seat height
Material: Mahogany
Details: Pierced ribbon back splat, scalloped crest rail, upholstered seat
Origin: Massachusetts, Circa 1800
Condition: Estate soiling to upholstered seat; wear consistent with age and use
Condition:
Alterations: Restored
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Condition: Estate soiling to upholstered seat; wear consistent with age and use, refinished.
Origin:
United States
Creator:
Styled After: Thomas Chippendale
Materials & Techniques:
Mahogany
Details:
Country of Origin: United States
Seat Height: 18.0in
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Number of Seats: 1
Condition
Restored; Some Imperfections; Condition: Estate soiling to upholstered seat; wear consistent with age and use, refinished.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
38 x 21 x 18 in
Antique Mahogany Chippendale Ribbon Back Side Chair, Massachusetts, Circa 1800
Estimate $650-$1,340
Starting Price
$320
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By LiveAuctioneersSeptember 14, 2026
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