The first wingback chair was introduced sometime in the 1700's. Its continued popularity and appeal are evidence of the amazing design. It is believed that the wings were originally meant to prevent the drafts common in old homes from reaching the torso of people sitting in these chairs. The chairs could also prevent the immense heat pouring off a roaring fire from affecting the delicate skin of ladies who might be sitting in the room.

Wingback chairs are also called fireside chairs. This is because the chairs design allows someone sitting near a fire to catch all the heat, while eliminating any cold drafts from creeping around their back or sides.

Safari Wing Back Chair

Wingback chairs are not the first ones to feature wings. Some high-backed wooden benches found in England in manor houses and inns also had wings. However, it is believed that these were the first chairs to add luxurious padding and upholstery to the concept.

They have been found in America since the time of the colonists. The legs were often delicately carved, and elegant framework brought a higher level of beauty and interest to the chairs.

While wingback chairs can be constructed with any number of color and fabric pattern choices, bright patterns have been a popular choice throughout the history of the chair. Leather is also an excellent choice, one that can make a wingback chair distinctly masculine.

The comfort these chairs offer, and the ability to effectively block drafts, makes them ideal choices for the elderly. This gives them another nickname you may be familiar with; the grandfather chair.

» Go to Part 3: Types

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