Question 1

What is a Windsor back chair?

Accepted Answer

A Windsor back chair is a solid wooden chair with an arched spindle back. Most designs have curved arms positioned on angled stands and carved legs connected by a cross stretcher. The chair gets its name from the English city of Windsor, where the chairs were first made in the 18th century. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Windsor back chairs.

Question 2

What are dining chairs without arms called?

Accepted Answer

Dining chairs without arms are called side chairs. Their counterpart, the armchair, is often found at the head of the table, with the side chairs filling in the seats along the side of the table. Shop a collection of side chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 3

What does Carver chair mean?

Accepted Answer

A Carver chair is a type of seating crafted out of wood. Normally, the backs feature curved rails and may feature cutouts or spindles. Arms generally slope downwards and have only front supports. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Carver chairs.

Question 4

What is a carver dining chair?

Accepted Answer

A carver dining chair is a kind of spool chair with legs rising above the seat level to frame the back and support the armrests. A theory about how carver chairs got their name is that the “master of the household” would sit at the head of the dining table and carve the meat that would be served for dinner. A widely reported origin story for the carver chair is that the name references a Pilgrim named John Carver, who was the founder of the Plymouth colony of Massachusetts in the United States. On 1stDibs, shop a range of antique and vintage carver chairs.

Question 5

What is a carver chair?

Accepted Answer

A carver chair is a dining chair with arms. It is sometimes called an elbow chair. Vintage carver chairs were often made in pairs as a part of a set of dining chairs. Reproductions of antique carver chairs are also very popular.

Question 6

Why are dining chairs with arms called carvers?

Accepted Answer

No one knows for sure why some dining chairs with arms are called carvers. However, it likely relates to the historical use of these chairs. Technically, carver is the nickname for a specific type of dining chair with arms, not for all dining armchairs. A Colonial American design, a carver chair features a backrest that wraps around the sides and forms arms. Traditionally, the carver chair went at the head of the table, and often the family member responsible for carving the primary entrée sat at this place. As a result, the chair's purpose for seating the carver of the meal is one potential explanation for the nickname. Another is that the name comes from John Carver, the governor of the Plymouth Colony. Reportedly, Carver owned one of these chairs, and people began referring to them by his name as a result. On 1stDibs, find an assortment of carver chairs.

Question 7

Why is it called a carver chair?

Accepted Answer

A theory about how carver chairs got their name is that the “master of the household” would sit at the head of the dining table and carve the meat that would be served for dinner. A widely reported origin story for the carver chair is that the name references a Pilgrim named John Carver, who was the founder of the Plymouth colony of Massachusetts in the United States. Carver is said to have owned a dining chair with armrests. This theory has been challenged, however, as John Carver may have died before the first carver chairs were made.

Question 8

Is carver chair a brand?

Accepted Answer

Carver chairs do not refer to a specific furniture brand — a carver chair is a generic kind of dining chair, although it features the added comfort of armrests. Vintage carver dining chairs and antique carver chairs are frequently requested at furniture stores around the United States as a staple of the American household.

Question 9

Where can I buy a carver chair?

Accepted Answer

Many stores sell carver chairs, and antique carver chairs can typically be found in secondhand/vintage shops across the country. Simple and comfortable, the carver chair is one of the most popular dining chairs in the United States. Here at 1stDibs, there are many different styles of carver chairs for sale.

Question 10

What did antique carver chairs originally look like?

Accepted Answer

The design has changed over the years, but most antique carver chairs were made of wood. Antique carver chairs were wide chairs made in 17th century New England — with backs that featured several supporting spindles — although there were no spindles between the armrests and the seat. Antique carver chairs were typically topped with decorative ornaments.

Question 11

What is a dining chair?

Accepted Answer

A dining chair is a chair used to provide seating while dining at a table. There are two main types: side chairs and armchairs. As the name suggests, armchairs feature integrated arms, and they typically go along the short ends of rectangular tables. Free of arms, side chairs are usually arranged along the sides of rectangular tables. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of dining chairs.

Question 12

How tall should dining chairs be?

Accepted Answer

Dining chairs should be around 18 inches tall. Since most dining tables are 30 inches high, 18 inch tall dining chairs allow for a comfortable amount of legroom. As a general rule of thumb, there should be around 12 inches between a dining table and a seat.

Question 13

What is the difference between dining chairs and accent chairs?

Accepted Answer

The difference between dining chairs and accent chairs is primarily their function. Generally, dining chairs are used in dining areas, where they provide comfortable seating for people to use while eating at tables. You'll normally find accent chairs in seating areas and other parts of the home, where users can sit on them while they read, make conversation or enjoy other relaxing activities. Shop a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 14

What is the difference between an accent chair and a dining chair?

Accepted Answer

The difference between an accent chair and a dining chair comes down to function and design. An accent chair usually goes in a seating area, and makers craft them with comfort in mind. As a result, most accent chairs feature cushioning and upholstery and are characterized by generous proportions. The purpose of a dining chair is to provide a place to sit while enjoying a meal. Usually, dining chairs are lighter and smaller than accent chairs for easy maneuvering. While they may have padded seats and backrests, dining chairs generally aren't as abundantly cushioned as accent chairs. Explore a large selection of chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 15

Are leather dining chairs worth it?

Accepted Answer

Many furniture lovers feel that leather dining chairs are worth it. Due to its natural beauty, leather can elevate dining rooms and add interest to interior designs by bringing in a new texture. Leather is also fairly easy to wipe clean, and top-grain and full-grain upholstery often hold up well to the effects of frequent use. Keep in mind that other factors contribute to the overall quality of a chair, such as its frame materials and construction methods. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of leather dining chairs.

Question 16

Is it worth recovering dining chairs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it may be worth recovering dining chairs. If the upholstery on your chairs is worn or stained, but the frames are in good condition, recovering them can restore their appearance and allow you to continue using your furniture for more years. However, there may be some downsides to recovering. Sometimes, the material and labor costs may be more than what you might pay for new chairs. Recovering some vintage or antique dining chairs may also diminish their value. If your chairs are vintage or antique, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or antique dealer to learn about the potential impact of replacing the fabric before you proceed with the recovery process. It is also a good idea to get estimates from a few professional furniture repairers to see how much the project will cost. Shop a large collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 17

What are the chairs at a dining table called?

Accepted Answer

The chairs at a dining table are generally just called dining chairs. Chairs without arms that go along the sides of a table are side chairs. Typically positioned at the ends of tables, dining chairs framed by arms are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.

Question 18

What is a dining chair with arms called?

Accepted Answer

A dining chair with arms is called a carver chair or elbow chair. It is a traditional dining chair with arms added to it for a more structured look and is a popular option for dining seats for a spot to comfortably rest your arms. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 19

How can you tell if a dining chair is antique?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a dining chair is antique, first look for markings that can help you identify the maker. You will normally find these under the seat. By using information published on trusted online resources, you can research the markings to learn who made the chair and when the maker was active. Any dining chair made 100 years ago or earlier is an antique. Another way to identify antique chairs is to examine their details closely. Most antique dining chairs are handmade, so you can expect to see subtle tool markings and slight irregularities. A lack of these characteristics may indicate that a dining chair is machine-made and less likely to be an antique. For assistance with dating your dining chairs, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of antique dining chairs.

Question 20

Is leather good for dining chairs?

Accepted Answer

Whether leather is good for dining chairs is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find leather to be easy to wipe clean and appreciate its texture and appearance. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of leather dining chairs.

Question 21

Do chairs have to match the dining table?

Accepted Answer

Dining room chairs and dining tables do not necessarily have to match.

Question 22

What is a dining room chair called?

Accepted Answer

A dining room chair is called a dining chair. However, depending on its style, you may also see a dining chair referred to by other names. Armless ones placed along the long sides of rectangular and oval tables are side chairs, while the chairs with arms that often go at the heads of tables are armchairs. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary dining chairs.

Question 23

What is a good width for a dining chair?

Accepted Answer

A good width for a dining chair is generally considered to be 16 to 20 inches. Chairs within this size range typically provide enough space for most people to sit comfortably. Shop a collection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Carver Dining Chair

Vintage 1960s Italian Chairs

Dining Chairs in ebonised ash wood by Carlo di Carli, c1964

Early 20th Century English Edwardian Dining Room Chairs

Set of Six Antique Ships Carver Dining Chairs

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Pair Of Jens Risom ‘Playboy’ C140 Walnut Carver Dining Chairs/Lounge Chairs

Vintage 1960s American Chairs

A Set of Six Paul Evans Cityscape Carver Dining Chairs

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Hvidt and Mølgaard #316 Carver Chair

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Niels Otto Møller Rosewood Carvers with Vintage Dining Table

Antique 1780s English George III Dining Room Chairs

Fine Set of Eight George III Hepplewhite Shield Back Mahogany Dining Chairs

Antique 19th Century English Regency Dining Room Chairs

Set of Six Antique Regency Mahogany Dining Chairs

Vintage 1930s British Dining Room Sets

Antique Robert "Mouseman" Thompson Octagonal Oak Dining Table Eight Chairs

Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Chairs

Pair of Edwardian Black Lacquered and Gilt Highlighted Elbow Chairs with Cane

1990s German Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Set of Twelve Art Deco Dining Chairs Including 2 Carvers

Early 20th Century Scottish Dining Room Chairs

Set of 8 Oak Dining Chairs (6 singles + 2 carvers)

Antique Late 18th Century Dining Room Chairs

Mahogany Hepplewhite Period Carver Chair

Antique Late 18th Century British Dining Room Chairs

18th Century Carver Chair or Desk Chair

Early 20th Century English Dining Room Sets

Wonderful Heals Antique Oak Dining Table Chairs

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Red Carimate Carver Chair Vico Magistretti

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Set of 8 Danish teak dining "Carver s Chairs" by Niels Otto Møller

Vintage 1980s English George II Dining Room Chairs

Set of 20 Upholstered Camel Back Dining Chairs 12 Singles and 8 Carvers

Vintage 1910s Sheraton Dining Room Chairs

Set of Eight Edwardian Satinwood Inlaid Dining Chairs with Two Carvers C. 1910

Early 20th Century Dining Room Chairs

Mahogany Hepplewhite Style Carver or Desk Chair

Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Mid Century Ercol Windsor Dining Chairs, 1960s, Set Of 6 (Including 2x Carvers)

Vintage 1970s Australian Victorian Dining Room Chairs

Set of Eight Victorian Style Carver Chairs

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Niel Otto Moller Carvers and Dining Table of Brazilian Rosewood

Vintage 1970s British Dining Room Chairs

Ten Rosewood chairs, including two carvers, by Gordon Russells

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Niels Otto Møller, 1962, Rosewood Carvers with Six Side Chairs

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Pair of Kai Kristiansen Teak Carvers or Side Chairs, Danish

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Pair of Dark Wood Carimate Carver Chairs by Vico Magistretti

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Pair of Red Carimate Carver Chairs by Vico Magistretti for Habitat

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Single Glossy Red Carimate Carver Chair by Vico Magistretti for Habitat

Antique Early 19th Century Dining Room Chairs

Pair of William IV Mahogany Carvers

20th Century Chairs

Antique Set of Six Carver Round Seat Dining Chairs

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Pair of Johannes Andersen Teak Side / Carver Armchairs, Restored

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Niels Moller Model 62 Carvers in Teak and Leather

Antique Late 18th Century Dining Room Chairs

Set of Eight Mahogany Dining Chairs

Antique 19th Century English Dining Room Chairs

Set of Ten Regency Dining Chairs

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Pair of Niels Otto Moller rosewood carvers made 1962-70

Antique 19th Century French Dining Room Chairs

Set of Six French Empire Style Dining Chairs

1990s German Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Set of Eight Art Deco Style Dining Chairs

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Steffan Larsen Rosewood and Black Leather Dining Chairs

Antique 17th Century Dining Room Chairs