What is a bistro chair?

A bistro chair is a versatile chair that can be used in cafes, restaurants, bars and even residential homes all around the world. Find a variety of antique and vintage bistro chairs on 1stDibs today.

What is a Thonet chair?

A Thonet chair can be any chair developed by the furniture maker Thonet, which has been manufacturing furniture for more than 180 years. However, most people are referring to one designed by founder Gebrüder Thonet. It features a bentwood frame produced with a patent steam method that Thonet patented and a curved seat. Find a range of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.

Are bistro chairs comfortable?

Whether bistro chairs are comfortable is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find the width of the seat and back make it possible to sit back and relax during a meal or conversation. Find a variety of bistro chairs on 1stDibs.

What size are bistro chairs?

Bistro chairs are traditionally paired with bistro tables, so the chairs are usually standard dining height. Standard dining height can range from 18 to 26 inches tall. You’ll find a large collection of bistro chairs in varying heights on 1stDibs..

What was significant about the Thonet chair?

Perhaps the most significant thing about the Thonet chair was that it was the first chair to ever be shipped in parts with instructions that allowed the purchaser to assemble it themselves. As a result, the beech wood and rattan chairs could be mass produced and sold all over the world more easily. Shop a range of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.

How do I know if my chair is Thonet?

An authentic Thonet chair will have the company’s name with a solid line underneath carved somewhere on the chair. The brand can also confirm the authenticity and age of a Thonet chair via its website. Shop a variety of authentic Thonet furniture on 1stDibs.

What is a Thonet-style chair?

A Thonet-style chair is a wooden chair that has a curvy, bent backrest, a round seat and subtly flared legs. The chairs get their name from the original manufacturer, Thonet, which produced chairs in the mid-century modern style in Europe during the 20th century. Shop a range of Thonet furniture on 1stDibs.

Are Thonet chairs marked?

Yes, Thonet chairs are marked. You will usually find the brand's label on a tag or burned into the wood under the seat. On 1stDibs, you can shop a variety of expertly vetted Thonet furniture from top sellers around the world.

Are Thonet chairs stackable?

Whether or not Thonet chairs are stackable depends on their design. The bentwood chairs produced by the company do easily stack, but others like cantilever chairs do not. Find a range of Thonet chairs forms some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How do you pronounce Thonet chair?

Michael Thonet is a German-Austrian furniture maker who designed the famed bentwood chair in 1830. His last name, Thonet, is pronounced “TOE-net,” but it’s commonly mispronounced “tho-NAY.” Shop a collection of vintage and modern Michael Thonet pieces on 1stDibs.

How do I identify a Thonet chair?

To identify a Thonet chair, look under the seat. Most Thonet chairs will feature a maker's marking. Often, you'll find the Thonet name carved into the wooden seat frame or printed on a paper label mounted on the seat's underside. Because Thonet changed its markings over the years, you can get a rough idea of the age of your chair by comparing the ones on your piece to images on trusted online reference guides. If you need help with the identification process, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can be of assistance. Find a range of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.

What are French bistro chairs made of?

What French bistro chairs are made of varies. Introduced during the 19th century, many French bistro chairs feature a frame made of aluminum or wrought iron, while the seat cushions and backrests of these furnishings are frequently made of rattan. This type of chair became especially popular in the busy cafes of Paris during the 1920s. On 1stDibs, find a selection of bistro chairs.

How can you tell if a Thonet chair is real?

To tell if a Thonet chair is real, you can use Thonet's authenticity verification service. To take advantage of it, you will need to take many photographs of the chair from different angles and close-up images of markings and paper labels. You can learn more about the authentication process on the Thonet website. Shop a diverse assortment of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.

How do I identify a Thonet rocking chair?

To identify a Thonet rocking chair, look for the company name. You will normally find it stamped directly onto the underside of the seat, arms or legs. You can find a collection of expertly vetted Thonet rocking chairs on 1stDibs.

Thonet Bistro Chair

Mid Century Modern Bistro Set

Art Deco Bistro

Category

Vintage 1970s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Wood

Thonet Style Cherry Toned Wood Bistro Chairs

$285 / item

Old cane bistro chair by Thonet editions

By Thonet

Located in AIGNAN, FR

Bistro chair in bentwood and canework, model no. 14, designed by Thonet, in the 1920s. Wood color

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Chairs

Materials

Rattan, Wood

Old cane bistro chair by Thonet editions

$532 / item

Vintage Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chair Bentwood and Cane attributed to Thonet

By Thonet

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage No. 18 Classic bistro Cafe Ice Cream Parlor chair. Structurally sound with original cane

Category

Vintage 1950s Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Cane, Ash

Vintage Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chair Bentwood and Cane attributed to Thonet

$275

Thonet set of Four Bistro Chairs in Bentwood, 1920

By Thonet

Located in Antwerp, BE

Set of four antique bentwood bistro chairs, Art Nouveau Thonet bistro dining chair with a

Category

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Nouveau Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Thonet set of Four Bistro Chairs in Bentwood, 1920

$1,364 / set

Set of Eight Cafe Bistro Dining Chairs by Thonet

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Classic set of eight cafe, dining, bistro chairs by Thonet. The chairs are in good original

Category

Early 20th Century Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Bentwood

Set of Eight Cafe Bistro Dining Chairs by Thonet

$1,200 / set

Large Set of Thonet Dining Cafe Bistro Chairs 12 available

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Iconic Thonet steam bent case, bistro style dining chairs, unusual to find a large lots still

Category

Early 20th Century Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Bentwood

Large Set of Thonet Dining Cafe Bistro Chairs 12 available

$185 / item

Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chairs - Bentwood Vienna Secessionist - A Pair

By Thonet, Michael Thonet

Located in Decatur, GA

Classic chic pair of Thonet bentwood bistro or cafe chairs, circa 1930s. The chairs are constructed

Category

Vintage 1940s Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chairs - Bentwood Vienna Secessionist - A Pair

$550 / set

Pr. Bent Wood Bistro, Cafe Style Dining Chairs Att. to Thonet

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Chic, sophisticated pair of cafe, bistro style dining chairs of bentwood frames with vinyl pad

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Bentwood

Pr. Bent Wood Bistro, Cafe Style Dining Chairs Att. to Thonet

$350

Large Group of 10 Cafe, Bistro, Dining Chairs att. to Thonet

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Set of 10 cafe, bistro style dining chairs of steam bent wood frames, with vinyl pad seats. The

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Bentwood

Large Group of 10 Cafe, Bistro, Dining Chairs att. to Thonet

$185

Vintage Antique Bentwood Bistro Cafe Chairs by Thonet Set of 4

By Thonet

Located in Detroit, MI

This set of four classic antique bentwood cafe chairs were manufactured by Thonet in the United

Category

Vintage 1940s American Arts and Crafts Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Vintage Antique Bentwood Bistro Cafe Chairs by Thonet Set of 4

$2,600 / set

Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chairs - Bentwood Vienna Secessionist - Set of 4

By Michael Thonet, Thonet

Located in Decatur, GA

Classic chic set of four Thonet bentwood bistro or cafe chairs, circa 1930s. The chairs are

Category

Vintage 1940s Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chairs - Bentwood Vienna Secessionist - Set of 4

$1,100 / set

Set of 4 vintage bentwood bistro chairs with Crocodile pattern by Thonet

By Thonet

Located in Mortsel, BE

Set of 4 vintage bentwood bistro chairs with Crocodile pattern by Thonet.

Category

Vintage 1920s Polish Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of 4 vintage bentwood bistro chairs with Crocodile pattern by Thonet

$3,441 / set

2 Thonet Italian Black Bentwood Cafe Bistro Arm Chairs Caned Parlor Dining

By Thonet

Located in Dayton, OH

Two vintage Italian Thonet arm chairs. Featuring ebonized black bent wood and caned seat. Measures

Category

Late 20th Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

2 Thonet Italian Black Bentwood Cafe Bistro Arm Chairs Caned Parlor Dining

$1,000 / set

Set of 8 Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs by Drevounia, 1950 s

By Drevounia, Thonet

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Set of 8 Thonet Style Cherry Toned Bentwood Bistro chairs by Drevounia, 1950's. Lightly refinished

Category

Vintage 1950s Czech Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Set of 8 Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs by Drevounia, 1950 s

$2,750 / set

Antique Bentwood Bistro Cafe Chairs by Josef Hoffman for Thonet

By Thonet, Josef Hoffmann

Located in Detroit, MI

This set of four antique bentwood cafe chairs designed by Josef Hoffman and manufactured by Thonet

Category

Vintage 1920s Austrian Arts and Crafts Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood, Bentwood

Antique Bentwood Bistro Cafe Chairs by Josef Hoffman for Thonet

$3,250 / set

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Sweetheart Bistro Cane Thonet Chairs Set of 4

By Michael Thonet

Located in Houston, TX

A set of 4 bentwood cafe bistro chairs designed by Michael Thonet know as the A-16 model. Made in

Category

Vintage 1940s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Sweetheart Bistro Cane Thonet Chairs Set of 4

$1,500 / set

Bentwood Thonet No.14 Styled Bistro Dining Chairs Reupholstered - Set of 12

By Michael Thonet

Located in Bridgeport, CT

bentwood dining chairs inspired by the iconic chair No 14 of Michael Thonet. The chair features a solid

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Bentwood

Bentwood Thonet No.14 Styled Bistro Dining Chairs Reupholstered - Set of 12

$2,600 / set

Set of Four Thonet Labeled Bentwood Cafe Bistro Chairs

By Jacob Josef Kohn, Thonet

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Set of four iconic No. 18 cafe bistro dining chairs with original early 20th century paper labels

Category

20th Century Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of Four Thonet Labeled Bentwood Cafe Bistro Chairs

$2,800 / set

Vintage Central European Bentwood Bistro Chairs, Set of Twelve

By Thonet

Located in High Point, NC

A set of twelve dining chairs from Central Europe, circa 1970. A bentwood frame in the style of

Category

Vintage 1970s Austrian Art Nouveau Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Vintage Central European Bentwood Bistro Chairs, Set of Twelve

$4,995 / set

Antique Fischel / Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro /Cafe Chairs, 1920s. Set of 14

By Fischel, Michael Thonet

Located in Buffalo, NY

Set of 14 Fischel Vienna dining chairs in bentwood with striped pattern on seat and backrest. These

Category

Vintage 1920s Czech Art Nouveau Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood, Bentwood, Plywood

Antique Fischel / Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro /Cafe Chairs, 1920s. Set of 14

$195 / item

Thonet No. 16 Bistro Chair Model by Ton, Czechoslovakia 1960s

By TON a.s., Michael Thonet

Located in Zohor, SK

Beautiful dining chair after a full restoration. The chair is Thonet No. 16 model, it was produced

Category

Vintage 1960s Czech Bohemian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Oak, Bentwood

Thonet No. 16 Bistro Chair Model by Ton, Czechoslovakia 1960s

$256 / item

Pair of Thonet Bistro Bentwood Chairs

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

Pair of Thonet Bistro Bentwood chairs A Good sturdy pair of Café Chairs, traditionally this

Category

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Pair of Thonet Bistro Bentwood Chairs

$492 / item

Early Michael Thonet N.17 Bistro Dining Armchairs in Bentwood and Cane - Austria

By Thonet, Michael Thonet

Located in Pijnacker, Zuid-Holland

medal for his bentwood chairs. He incorporated his family’s company, the Thonet Brothers — or Gebrüder

Category

Antique 1860s Austrian Rococo Revival Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Early Michael Thonet N.17 Bistro Dining Armchairs in Bentwood and Cane - Austria

$2,136 / set

Late 19th century French Thonet Style Pair of Dining Chairs, 1890s

By Thonet

Located in LEGNY, FR

Beautiful pair of Thonet style bistro chairs in curved wood dating from the end of the 19th century

Category

Antique 1890s French Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Late 19th century French Thonet Style Pair of Dining Chairs, 1890s

$1,649 / set

Jacob Josef Kohn Bentwood Mazowia Thonet Style Cafe Bistro Chairs Poland, 1910

By Jacob Josef Kohn, Thonet, Mazowia

Located in Southampton, NJ

Set of 4 Grotto style bentwood chairs marked with Mazowia as the maker. Chairs feature bentwood

Category

Early 20th Century Polish Victorian Side Chairs

Materials

Wood, Bentwood

Jacob Josef Kohn Bentwood Mazowia Thonet Style Cafe Bistro Chairs Poland, 1910

$1,095 / set

Set of 6 Thonet Style Bistro Chairs

Located in Houston, TX

Charming set of 6 Thonet style bistro chairs with bentwood frames. Slatted wood seat. In overall

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Set of 6 Thonet Style Bistro Chairs

$1,800

Set of 6 Bentwood Chairs by Thonet, 1920s, Austria

By Michael Thonet

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Set of 6 bentwood bistro chairs by Thonet, Vienna These chairs were made in the early 20th

Category

Vintage 1910s Austrian Chairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Set of 6 Bentwood Chairs by Thonet, 1920s, Austria

$1,483 / set

Set of 5 Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Set of 5 Thonet style bentwood bistro style cafe chairs. The chairs have a rich dark finish and

Category

Early 20th Century Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of 5 Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs

$1,500 / set

Set of 4 1930 s Antique Bentwood Thonet Dining Chairs

By Thonet

Located in Burbank, CA

Set of 4 original antique Thonet dining chairs for sale. These are the classic bentwood bistro

Category

Vintage 1930s American Hollywood Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of 4 1930 s Antique Bentwood Thonet Dining Chairs

$2,199

Set of 4 Antique Bentwood Bistro Chairs with Caned Seats

By Thonet

Located in Freehold, NJ

This set of four antique cafe chairs features bentwood construction, original finish, newer caned

Category

Vintage 1920s American American Classical Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Set of 4 Antique Bentwood Bistro Chairs with Caned Seats

$810 / set

1950 s Luterma Bistro Bentwood Dining Chair - Harlequin Set Of Four

By Thonet

Located in Hook, Hampshire

1950’s Luterma Bistro Bentwood Dining Chair – Harlequin Set Of Four 1950’s Luterma Bistro

Category

Vintage 1950s Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

1950 s Luterma Bistro Bentwood Dining Chair - Harlequin Set Of Four

$616 / set

Dining set - Antique Michael Thonet Designed No.11 Chairs and matching table

By Michael Thonet

Located in Highclere, Newbury

than the first designs of Thonet chairs and if you have ever sat in one of the classic Thonet bistro

Category

20th Century German Black Forest Dining Room Sets

Materials

Wicker, Beech

Dining set - Antique Michael Thonet Designed No.11 Chairs and matching table

$2,731 / set

Italian Modern Bistro Dining Chairs Set 4 , Bentwood, 1940s Thonet Style Wood

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Italian modern bistro dining chairs (set 4), wood. Made in 1940s. Thonet style.

Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Italian Modern Bistro Dining Chairs Set 4 , Bentwood, 1940s Thonet Style Wood

$1,400 / set

Vintage Bentwood GAR Romania Thonet Cafe Bistro Dining Chairs, Set of 4

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage bentwood GAR Romania Thonet cafe Bistro dining chairs - Set of 4. Set includes (4) chairs

Category

Mid-20th Century Romanian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Vintage Bentwood GAR Romania Thonet Cafe Bistro Dining Chairs, Set of 4

$1,100 / set

Authentic Thonet No. 11 ½ Caned Bistro Arm Chair, 1881-1919

By Thonet

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Authentic Belle Epoque Thonet armchair with cane seating and bentwood armrests. This chair is at

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Austrian Belle Époque Armchairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Authentic Thonet No. 11 ½ Caned Bistro Arm Chair, 1881-1919

$750

Suite of Five Oka Bentwood Dining Chairs Lovely Rattan Woven Seats

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

based on the original Thonet bentwood bistro chairs We have cleaned waxed and polished them from top

Category

20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rattan, Bentwood

Suite of Five Oka Bentwood Dining Chairs Lovely Rattan Woven Seats

$1,369 / set

Vienna Secession J. J. Kohn 1880/90 Bench No. 11

By Jacob Josef Kohn

Located in Boven Leeuwen, NL

(maker of the iconic Thonet No. 14 chair or “bistro chair”), Michael Thonet and his subsequent studio

Category

Antique 1880s Austrian Vienna Secession Benches

Materials

Bentwood

Vienna Secession J. J. Kohn 1880/90 Bench No. 11

$1,424

Vienna Secession J. J. Kohn 717 Settee by Gustav Siegel

By Jacob Josef Kohn, Gustav Siegel

Located in Buffalo, NY

(maker of the iconic Thonet No. 14 chair or “bistro chair”), Michael Thonet and his subsequent studio

Category

Antique Early 1900s Austrian Vienna Secession Settees

Materials

Fabric, Beech, Bentwood

Vienna Secession J. J. Kohn 717 Settee by Gustav Siegel

$5,400

Set of 4 very charming antique Thonet bistro chairs with new matte seats

By Thonet

Located in Harderwijk, NL

These wonderful set of antique bistro chairs from Thonet display their age in a positive and

Category

Early 20th Century Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wicker, Wood

Set of 4 very charming antique Thonet bistro chairs with new matte seats

$1,305

antique Thonet bistro chairs no 14 118 webbing bentwood, 1880, set of 3

By Michael Thonet, Thonet

Located in Zevenaar, NL

Beautiful set of 3 authentic Michael Thonet no. 14 bentwood chairs with webbing seats by Thonet

Category

Antique 1870s Austrian Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rattan, Beech

antique Thonet bistro chairs no 14 118 webbing bentwood, 1880, set of 3

$1,756

Antique Josef Hoffmann Michael Thonet bistro chairs no 14 118 webbing, 1880s, 8p

By Michael Thonet, Josef Hoffmann

Located in Zevenaar, NL

Beautiful set of 8 antique, authentic and all original Thonet no. 14 bentwood chairs with webbing

Category

Antique 1860s Austrian Bauhaus Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rattan, Bentwood

Antique Josef Hoffmann Michael Thonet bistro chairs no 14 118 webbing, 1880s, 8p

$3,655

Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chair

By Thonet

Located in London, GB

Thonet style bentwood bistro chair, steam-bent beechwood with decorative steam-pressed seats, early

Category

Vintage 1920s European Chairs

Materials

Beech

Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chair

$479

Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs, Set of 4

By Thonet

Located in Winter Park, FL

A set of four Art Nouveau bentwood bistro chairs with embossed palmette decoration. The chairs have

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Art Nouveau Chairs

Materials

Beech, Bentwood

Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs, Set of 4

$950

Signed Thonet Bent Wood Bistro Dining Chairs

By Thonet

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Classic Thonet molded wood bistro chairs. Structurally sound with beautiful aged honey tone. One

Category

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

Materials

Bentwood

Signed Thonet Bent Wood Bistro Dining Chairs

$599

Set of Four Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs

By Thonet

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Mid-Century set of four Thonet design bistro chairs made of beech with a pine seat. Made in Krakow

Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Beech

Set of Four Thonet Style Bentwood Bistro Chairs

$1,500

Set of 4 Thonet #14 Bistro Chairs

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Set of 4 Classic model 14 bistro chairs marked Thonet. Arguably the most iconic chair ever designed

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Beech

Set of 4 Thonet #14 Bistro Chairs

$2,400

Thonet Bentwood Cane Bistro or Side Chair, 1920 s

By Thonet

Located in Doylestown, PA

Thonet bentwood cane cafe or side chair, 1920's This iconic design chair has a sturdy yet

Category

Vintage 1920s European Bauhaus Chairs

Materials

Cane, Beech

Thonet Bentwood Cane Bistro or Side Chair, 1920 s

$450

Large Group 23 Cafe Bistro Chairs Thonet

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Large lot of 23 Thonet, Fischel, JJ Kohn chairs selling as one group. The set consists of 7

Category

Early 20th Century American Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Beech

Large Group 23 Cafe Bistro Chairs Thonet

$2,300

Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chair Bentwood and Cane

By Thonet

Located in Chula Vista, CA

Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chair Bentwood and Cane 35.25 h x 16.25 x 21 d Seat 18.25 Preowned

Category

Early 20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Thonet Bistro Cafe Dining Chair Bentwood and Cane

$295

Bistro Dining Chair Designed by Thonet, Austria, 1910

By Thonet

Located in Antwerp, BE

Classic collectible chair by famous German-Austrian cabinetmaker Michael Thonet. Turned spindle

Category

20th Century Austrian Industrial Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Rattan, Fruitwood

Bistro Dining Chair Designed by Thonet, Austria, 1910

$379

Bentwood and Cane Bistro Dining Chairs Attributed to Thonet

By Thonet

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Set of four, bistro/café, dining chairs attributed to Thonet feature stained maple, bentwood frames

Category

Mid-20th Century American Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Maple, Bentwood

Bentwood and Cane Bistro Dining Chairs Attributed to Thonet

$1,400

Set of Eight Thonet Style Bentwood Cafe Bistro Chairs

By Thonet

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Attractive set of eight Thonet style bentwood cafe of bistro chairs. Featuring a slat or stick back

Category

20th Century European Art Nouveau Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of Eight Thonet Style Bentwood Cafe Bistro Chairs

$2,500

Antique Bentwood and Cane Thonet Bistro Side Chair, Made In Austria

By Thonet

Located in San Carlos, CA

elegance to your space with this classic Thonet bentwood chair, produced in Austria. Perfect as a bistro or

Category

Vintage 1930s Austrian Art Deco Side Chairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Antique Bentwood and Cane Thonet Bistro Side Chair, Made In Austria

$490

Set of Six Labeled Thonet No. 14 Bentwood Bistro Chairs

By Thonet

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Iconic set of six matching 19th century early Thonet No. 14 konsumstuhl bistro or coffee shop

Category

Antique 19th Century Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of Six Labeled Thonet No. 14 Bentwood Bistro Chairs

$4,800

6 Vintage Bentwood Thonet Style Parlor Dining Cafe Bistro Chairs

By Thonet

Located in Philadelphia, PA

6 vintage Bentwood Thonet style Parlor dining cafe bistro chairs. Listing includes barrel back

Category

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

Materials

Bentwood

6 Vintage Bentwood Thonet Style Parlor Dining Cafe Bistro Chairs

$850

Pr. Vienna Secessionist Bentwood Thonet Cafe Bistro Dining Chairs Model 31

By Thonet, Gebrüder Thonet Vienna GmbH

Located in New York, NY

Exceptional pair of antique bentwood Vienna Secessionist cafe, bistro style dining height chairs

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Chairs

Materials

Cane, Beech

Pr. Vienna Secessionist Bentwood Thonet Cafe Bistro Dining Chairs Model 31

$975

Set of Four Bistro Cafe Bentwood Dining Chairs att. to Thonet

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Nice set of four antique bentwood chairs attributed to Thonet. This set consists of four armless

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Bentwood

Set of Four Bistro Cafe Bentwood Dining Chairs att. to Thonet

$650

Seating Under $2,000

Antique and Vintage Seating

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Thonet Bistro Chair For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic thonet bistro chair available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, bentwood and hardwood, every thonet bistro chair was constructed with great care. Find 23 options for an antique or vintage thonet bistro chair now, or shop our selection of 1 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer thonet bistro chair, there are earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A thonet bistro chair made by Art Nouveau designers — as well as those associated with Mid-Century Modern — is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made thonet bistro chair over the years, but those crafted by Thonet and Michael Thonet are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Thonet Bistro Chair?

Prices for a thonet bistro chair can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $125 and can go as high as $4,995, while the average can fetch as much as $1,283.

Finding the Right Seating for You

With entire areas of our homes reserved for “sitting rooms,” the value of quality antique and vintage seating cannot be overstated.

Fortunately, the design of side chairs, armchairs and other lounge furniture — since what were, quite literally, the early perches of our ancestors — has evolved considerably.

Among the earliest standard seating furniture were stools. Egyptian stools, for example, designed for one person with no seat back, were x-shaped and typically folded to be tucked away. These rudimentary chairs informed the design of Greek and Roman stools, all of which were a long way from Sori Yanagi's Butterfly stool or Alvar Aalto's Stool 60. In the 18th century and earlier, seats with backs and armrests were largely reserved for high nobility.

The seating of today is more inclusive but the style and placement of chairs can still make a statement. Antique desk chairs and armchairs designed in the style of Louis XV, which eventually included painted furniture and were often made of rare woods, feature prominently curved legs as well as Chinese themes and varied ornaments. Much like the thrones of fairy tales and the regency, elegant lounges crafted in the Louis XV style convey wealth and prestige. In the kitchen, the dining chair placed at the head of the table is typically reserved for the head of the household or a revered guest.

Of course, with luxurious vintage or antique furnishings, every chair can seem like the best seat in the house. Whether your preference is stretching out on a plush sofa, such as the Serpentine, designed by Vladimir Kagan, or cozying up in a vintage wingback chair, there is likely to be a comfy classic or contemporary gem for you on 1stDibs.

With respect to the latest obsessions in design, cane seating has been cropping up everywhere, from sleek armchairs to lounge chairs, while bouclé fabric, a staple of modern furniture design, can be seen in mid-century modern, Scandinavian modern and Hollywood Regency furniture styles.

Admirers of the sophisticated craftsmanship and dark woods frequently associated with mid-century modern seating can find timeless furnishings in our expansive collection of lounge chairs, dining chairs and other items — whether they’re vintage editions or alluring official reproductions of iconic designs from the likes of Hans Wegner or from Charles and Ray Eames. Shop our inventory of Egg chairs, designed in 1958 by Arne Jacobsen, the Florence Knoll lounge chair and more.

No matter your style, the collection of unique chairs, sofas and other seating on 1stDibs is surely worthy of a standing ovation.

Questions About Thonet Bistro Chair

What is a bistro chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
A bistro chair is a versatile chair that can be used in cafes, restaurants, bars and even residential homes all around the world. Find a variety of antique and vintage bistro chairs on 1stDibs today.
What is a Thonet chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
A Thonet chair can be any chair developed by the furniture maker Thonet, which has been manufacturing furniture for more than 180 years. However, most people are referring to one designed by founder Gebrüder Thonet. It features a bentwood frame produced with a patent steam method that Thonet patented and a curved seat. Find a range of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.
Are bistro chairs comfortable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
Whether bistro chairs are comfortable is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find the width of the seat and back make it possible to sit back and relax during a meal or conversation. Find a variety of bistro chairs on 1stDibs.
What size are bistro chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Bistro chairs are traditionally paired with bistro tables, so the chairs are usually standard dining height. Standard dining height can range from 18 to 26 inches tall. You’ll find a large collection of bistro chairs in varying heights on 1stDibs..
What was significant about the Thonet chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
Perhaps the most significant thing about the Thonet chair was that it was the first chair to ever be shipped in parts with instructions that allowed the purchaser to assemble it themselves. As a result, the beech wood and rattan chairs could be mass produced and sold all over the world more easily. Shop a range of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.
How do I know if my chair is Thonet?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
An authentic Thonet chair will have the company’s name with a solid line underneath carved somewhere on the chair. The brand can also confirm the authenticity and age of a Thonet chair via its website. Shop a variety of authentic Thonet furniture on 1stDibs.
What is a Thonet-style chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
A Thonet-style chair is a wooden chair that has a curvy, bent backrest, a round seat and subtly flared legs. The chairs get their name from the original manufacturer, Thonet, which produced chairs in the mid-century modern style in Europe during the 20th century. Shop a range of Thonet furniture on 1stDibs.
Are Thonet chairs marked?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, Thonet chairs are marked. You will usually find the brand's label on a tag or burned into the wood under the seat. On 1stDibs, you can shop a variety of expertly vetted Thonet furniture from top sellers around the world.
Are Thonet chairs stackable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Whether or not Thonet chairs are stackable depends on their design. The bentwood chairs produced by the company do easily stack, but others like cantilever chairs do not. Find a range of Thonet chairs forms some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do you pronounce Thonet chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Michael Thonet is a German-Austrian furniture maker who designed the famed bentwood chair in 1830. His last name, Thonet, is pronounced “TOE-net,” but it’s commonly mispronounced “tho-NAY.” Shop a collection of vintage and modern Michael Thonet pieces on 1stDibs.
How do I identify a Thonet chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 27, 2024
To identify a Thonet chair, look under the seat. Most Thonet chairs will feature a maker's marking. Often, you'll find the Thonet name carved into the wooden seat frame or printed on a paper label mounted on the seat's underside. Because Thonet changed its markings over the years, you can get a rough idea of the age of your chair by comparing the ones on your piece to images on trusted online reference guides. If you need help with the identification process, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can be of assistance. Find a range of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.
What are French bistro chairs made of?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
What French bistro chairs are made of varies. Introduced during the 19th century, many French bistro chairs feature a frame made of aluminum or wrought iron, while the seat cushions and backrests of these furnishings are frequently made of rattan. This type of chair became especially popular in the busy cafes of Paris during the 1920s. On 1stDibs, find a selection of bistro chairs.
How can you tell if a Thonet chair is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
To tell if a Thonet chair is real, you can use Thonet's authenticity verification service. To take advantage of it, you will need to take many photographs of the chair from different angles and close-up images of markings and paper labels. You can learn more about the authentication process on the Thonet website. Shop a diverse assortment of Thonet chairs on 1stDibs.
How do I identify a Thonet rocking chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To identify a Thonet rocking chair, look for the company name. You will normally find it stamped directly onto the underside of the seat, arms or legs. You can find a collection of expertly vetted Thonet rocking chairs on 1stDibs.

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