Antique Press-Back Oak High Chair with Aluminum Tray
Unbranded (Likely Phoenix Chair Co. or Heywood-Wakefield based on style) · Furniture > Antiques > Children's Furniture
Era / Decade
Circa 1900-1920s (Late Victorian / Early Edwardian Era)
Material
Solid Quartersawn Oak with Aluminum removable tray; turned wood spindles and bentwood arms.
Condition
Good (Vintage Condition). Structurally sound with original press-back carving. Notable pitting and oxidation on the aluminum tray. Wear to finish on the seat and footrest. Non-original canvas safety strap added.
Demand Level
Moderate to Niche. High demand for photo props or rustic home decor, but lower demand for practical baby use due to modern safety standards.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$75 - $175
Estimated Retail Value
$250 - $450 (Reproduction equivalent)
Comparable Sales
Similar oak press-back chairs with trays typically sell for $125-$150 on eBay (plus freight); locally, prices range from $60 to $100 depending on the detail of the carving.
Description
Stunning late 19th/early 20th-century press-back high chair crafted from heavy solid oak. Features a beautifully detailed embossed scroll pattern on the crest rail, six turned spindles across the back, and original curved armrests. Includes a rare, period-correct removable aluminum tray. This piece exemplifies American craftsmanship from the Golden Oak era.
Key Features
Highly desirable press-back carving; solid oak construction; original hardware; aluminum trays are often missing from these pieces, increasing value.
Authenticity Indicators
Construction using flat-head screws and wooden dowels; characteristic 'press-back' machine-stamped carving common to the turn of the century; natural patina of old oak. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Heavy oxidation and surface pitting on the tray; general finish wear; modern canvas strap is not period-accurate and should be removed or replaced for collectors.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace (Local pickup is best due to size), Etsy (for vintage enthusiasts), or a local Antique Mall booth.
Selling Tips
Highlight its use as a photography prop for 'Cake Smash' sessions or as a holiday decoration. Clean the wood with Howard Feed-N-Wax to restore luster without stripping patina. Market it as 'Antique Decor' rather than a 'Baby Safety Item' to avoid liability issues.