What is a bentwood chair?

A bentwood chair is a chair made out of wood that has been steamed and formed into its desired shape. The iconic No. 14 chair made by Thonet is a well-know chair made in this technique. There are many bentwood chairs for sale on 1stDibs.

What is a bentwood box?

A bentwood box is a traditionally crafted style of a box from a single piece of wood that has been steamed and bent to form a box. Three of its four corners are bent at a 90-degree angle, with the fourth corner pinned, stitched, or glued in place. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary bentwood boxes from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

How do I identify a Thonet?

To identify a Thonet, first locate the maker's marking. On Thonet chairs, you'll usually find it carved into the wood frame on the underside of the seat. Markings may say “Thonet,” “Thonet Wien,” “GT,” “GBThonet” or “GBThonetWien,” depending on the age of your piece. Cross-reference the mark with information published on trusted online resources to get a rough idea of when your furniture was produced. Then, you can review Thonet catalogues available online to identify your piece's model number. Alternatively, you can enlist the help of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer to perform the identification process for you. Shop a wide range of Thonet furniture on 1stDibs.

What is Thonet furniture?

Thonet is a well known furniture company that was started by Michael Thonet in 1830 as he experimented with bentwood furniture. The brand is known for producing high-quality products with exquisite craftsmanship. Shop a collection of Thonet furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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.

How do I identify a bentwood chair?

To identify a bentwood chair, look closely at its back. With a real bentwood chair, an artisan achieves the curved effect by steaming or soaking wood and then bending it. As a result, you won't normally see any tool marks that indicate carving, and each curved component will be an individual piece that is screwed, glued or bolted together. If you spot the “Thonet” name on the seat, it's another good indication that your chair is bentwood, as the maker was famous for this type of seating. If you're still unsure about the type of chair you have, consider seeking the opinion of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. Explore a selection of bentwood chairs on 1stDibs.

How old are bentwood rockers?

A bentwood rocking chair was introduced in the mid-1800s by Michael Thonet. Bentwood furniture is a signature of the furniture manufacturer Thonet — Michael produced chairs out of steam-bent wood, and starting in the middle of the 19th century, he produced a series of rockers. Shop a range of bentwood rocking chairs and furniture on 1stDibs.

How do I identify bentwood chairs?

To identify a bentwood chair, search the piece for a maker's mark. Most often, you will find it under the seat. Once you have located the marking, consult trusted online resources to learn more about the maker. From there, you can find chairs similar to yours in online catalogues to gain more information about your piece. Another option is to have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer assist you with the identification process. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of bentwood chairs.

What are bentwood rockers made of?

Bentwood rockers are made out of wood that gets heated to a high temperature with steam and then bent. Ash and beech are two popular wood species for bentwood chair production. However, other woods are also suitable for use. On 1stDibs, find a range of bentwood rockers.

Who made bentwood rockers?

Michael Thonet was the original maker of bentwood chairs. He invented the process of bending wood by using vapor to heat and then bend it into shape. You can shop a collection of bentwood chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

When were Bentwood chairs made?

The Bentwood Chair was made by German-Austrian cabinetmaker Michael Thonet in the mid-19th century. His design is still popular with interior designers and homeowners worldwide. Shop a collection of Bentwood chairs from some of the world’s top sellers 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.

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.

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.

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 In Bentwood

Thonet 1950

Bentwood Chairs With Cane Seating

Thonet Cane Dining Chairs

Thonet Art Nouveau

Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Plywood

Tall Midcentury Room Divider in Blond Bentwood, circa 1960s

$1,267

209 Thonet Midcentury Birchwood Yellow Upholstery Dining Chairs, Germany, 1900

By Thonet

Located in Madrid, ES

steam-bentwood furniture, like his famous Boppard chair (1836), brought international acclaim. Thonet

Category

Antique Early 1900s German Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Cotton, Birch

209 Thonet Midcentury Birchwood Yellow Upholstery Dining Chairs, Germany, 1900

$8,841 / set

Rare Stool Thonet B313 by Frank Josef in 1928, by Bernkop

By Frank Josef, Thonet-Mundus

Located in Praha, CZ

- Czechoslovakia, by Bernkop - Fernštát - Designed by Josef Frank - Wooden parts restored - Otherwise original condition, see the pictures - Marked by manufacturer with paper lab...

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Bauhaus Stools

Materials

Bentwood

Rare Stool Thonet B313 by Frank Josef in 1928, by Bernkop

$1,530

Dining Table Thonet from Pilsen Castle in Bohemia, circa 1920

By Michael Thonet, D. G. Fischell

Located in Praha, CZ

Finely restored: Minor repairs to the lower parts of the legs. Treated against woodworm by injecting chemistry. Cleaned and repolished with shellack polish.

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Art Nouveau Tables

Materials

Beech, Bentwood

Dining Table Thonet from Pilsen Castle in Bohemia, circa 1920

$593

Dining Table Thonet from Pilsen Castle in Bohemia, circa 1920

By Michael Thonet, D. G. Fischell

Located in Praha, CZ

Finely restored: Minor repairs to the lower parts of the legs. Treated against woodworm by injecting chemistry. Cleaned and repolished with shellack polish.

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Art Nouveau Tables

Materials

Beech, Bentwood

Dining Table Thonet from Pilsen Castle in Bohemia, circa 1920

$593

Dining Table Thonet from Pilsen Castle in Bohemia, circa 1920

By Michael Thonet, D. G. Fischell

Located in Praha, CZ

Finely restored: Minor repairs to the lower parts of the legs. Treated against woodworm by injecting chemistry. Cleaned and repolished with shellack polish.

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Art Nouveau Tables

Materials

Beech, Bentwood

Dining Table Thonet from Pilsen Castle in Bohemia, circa 1920

$593

1940 s Bentwood Debrecen Thonet Classic Back Dining Chairs - Set Of Twelve

Located in Hook, Hampshire

1940's Bentwood Debrecen Thonet Classic Back Dining Chairs - Set Of Twelve 1940's Bentwood Debrecen

Category

Vintage 1940s Hungarian Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

1940 s Bentwood Debrecen Thonet Classic Back Dining Chairs - Set Of Twelve

$2,875 / set

Pair of Bauhaus Chair Thonet A283 by Gustav Adolf Schneck in 1928

By Gustav Adolf Schneck, Thonet-Mundus

Located in Praha, CZ

Manufactured in Czechoslovakia by the Thonet-Mundus. Designed in year 1930 by prof. Gustav Adolf

Category

Early 20th Century Czech Bauhaus Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Pair of Bauhaus Chair Thonet A283 by Gustav Adolf Schneck in 1928

$925 / set

Pair of Bauhaus Armchairs Thonet A283-F by Gustav Adolf Schneck in 1930

By Gustav Adolf Schneck, Thonet-Mundus

Located in Praha, CZ

Manufactured in Czechoslovakia by the Thonet-Mundus. Designed in year 1930 by prof. Gustav Adolf

Category

Early 20th Century German Bauhaus Armchairs

Materials

Bentwood

Pair of Bauhaus Armchairs Thonet A283-F by Gustav Adolf Schneck in 1930

$1,898 / set

Large Set Mahogany Color Midcentury Room Dividers in Bentwood, circa 1960s

By Thonet, Ludvik Volak

Located in Almelo, NL

patterns, designed by Ludvik Volak in the Czech Republic in the 1950s-1960s and manufactured by Thonet

Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Ash, Plywood

Large Set Mahogany Color Midcentury Room Dividers in Bentwood, circa 1960s

$1,950 / item

Large Set of Mahogany Color Midcentury Room Dividers in Bentwood, circa 1960s

By Thonet, Ludvik Volak

Located in Almelo, NL

patterns, designed by Ludvik Volak in the Czech Republic in the 1950s-1960s and manufactured by Thonet

Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Ash, Plywood

Large Set of Mahogany Color Midcentury Room Dividers in Bentwood, circa 1960s

$1,950 / item

Large Set of Mahogany Color Midcentury Room Dividers in Bentwood, circa 1960s

By Ludvik Volak, Thonet

Located in Almelo, NL

manufactured by TON (Thonet) in amazing good original condition and some minor patina on wood parts. Size: W

Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Ash, Plywood

Large Set of Mahogany Color Midcentury Room Dividers in Bentwood, circa 1960s

$2,250 / item

Art Nouveau Living Room Set by Fischel in Bentwood and Leather, circa 1910

By Thonet, Fischel, J J Kohn Mundus, Jacob Josef Kohn

Located in VÉZELAY, FR

Superb and rare living room / salon set with bentwood structures (beech) and leather seats and

Category

Antique Early 1900s Czech Art Nouveau Living Room Sets

Materials

Leather, Wood, Beech, Bentwood

Art Nouveau Living Room Set by Fischel in Bentwood and Leather, circa 1910

$6,645 / set

Pair of Marcel Breuer Cesca Chairs Thonet Cantilever Chairs Woven Cane Chrome

By Thonet, Marcel Breuer

Located in Basel, BS

Thonet had a tradition in bentwood furniture and wickerwork, Breuer combined these traditions with the

Category

Vintage 1980s German Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Stainless Steel, Chrome

Pair of Marcel Breuer Cesca Chairs Thonet Cantilever Chairs Woven Cane Chrome

$2,670 / set

Thonet Chair cover In Mink and Rabbit Fur

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Very rare rocking chair covered in mink and rabbit fur

Category

Antique 19th Century Austrian Armchairs

Materials

Bentwood, Fur

Thonet Chair cover In Mink and Rabbit Fur

$1,800

Midcentury Art Nouveau "Perroquet" Style Coat Rack in Thonet Style

Located in Miami, FL

Pair of midcentury Art Nouveau "Perroquet" Style coat rack in Thonet style with six doubles hooks.

Category

Early 20th Century French Art Nouveau Coat Racks and Stands

Materials

Bentwood

Midcentury Art Nouveau "Perroquet" Style Coat Rack in Thonet Style

$1,900

20th French Hall Tree with Mirror in the Thonet Style

Located in Miami, FL

20th French hall tree with mirror in the Thonet Style Hangers height: 1st level 79.52in 2nd

Category

Early 20th Century French French Provincial Coat Racks and Stands

Materials

Bentwood

20th French Hall Tree with Mirror in the Thonet Style

$2,775

Chair designed by Ligna in the style of Thonet, circa 1940.

By Ligna

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Vintage Bentwood Armchair by Ligna – Czechoslovakian Design, Circa 1940 – A Classic Thonet-Inspired

Category

Vintage 1940s French Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Rattan, Bentwood

Chair designed by Ligna in the style of Thonet, circa 1940.

$2,373 / item

Pair of "H269" Lounge Chairs by Jindrich Halabala in Peacock Blue and Walnut

By Thonet, Jindřich Halabala

Located in Shepperton, Surrey

A pair of original 1930s "H269" armchairs by Jindrich Halabala for Thonet. They have been

Category

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Materials

Velvet, Bentwood

Pair of "H269" Lounge Chairs by Jindrich Halabala in Peacock Blue and Walnut

$7,736 / set

Pair of "H269" Art Deco Lounge Chairs by Jindrich Halabala in Peacock Blue

By Thonet, Jindřich Halabala

Located in Shepperton, Surrey

A pair of original 1930s "H269" armchairs by Jindrich Halabala for Thonet. They have been

Category

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Materials

Velvet, Bentwood

Pair of "H269" Art Deco Lounge Chairs by Jindrich Halabala in Peacock Blue

$8,215 / set

Midcentury Room Divider Shelves in Mahogany Bent-Wood, Praque, 1960s

By Thonet, Ludvik Volak

Located in Almelo, NL

the 1960s and manufactured by TON (Thonet) in amazing good original condition and some minor patina on

Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Bentwood, Plywood

Midcentury Room Divider Shelves in Mahogany Bent-Wood, Praque, 1960s

$4,500 / set

Set/3 Midcentury Room Divider Shelves in Blond Bent-Wood, Praque, 1960s

By Thonet, Ludvik Volak

Located in Almelo, NL

1960s and manufactured by TON (Thonet) in amazing good original condition and some minor patina on wood

Category

Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Bentwood, Plywood

Set/3 Midcentury Room Divider Shelves in Blond Bent-Wood, Praque, 1960s

$7,450 / set

1940 s Bentwood Debrecen Round Back Dining Chairs - Set Of Four

Located in Hook, Hampshire

, but what we do know is at the beginning of the 20th Century Debrecen and Thonet were bentwood makers

Category

Vintage 1940s Hungarian Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

1940 s Bentwood Debrecen Round Back Dining Chairs - Set Of Four

$910 / set

1940 s Bentwood Debrecen Classic Back Dining Chairs - Set Of Four

Located in Hook, Hampshire

, but what we do know is at the beginning of the 20th Century Debrecen and Thonet were bentwood makers

Category

Vintage 1940s European Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

1940 s Bentwood Debrecen Classic Back Dining Chairs - Set Of Four

$951 / set

Chairs Model A 752 by Josef Frank for Thonet, 1960s, Set of Two

By Josef Frank

Located in Uppsala, SE

Wonderful pair of A 752 chairs designed by Josef Frank for Thonet in the 1930s. Bentwood frame in

Category

Vintage 1930s Austrian Art Deco Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Bentwood

Chairs Model A 752 by Josef Frank for Thonet, 1960s, Set of Two

$3,441 / set

Set of Four Austrian Art Deco Period Bentwood Bistro Chairs by Kohn

By Jacob Josef Kohn

Located in Fayetteville, AR

This set of four early 20th century Austrian Art Deco bentwood bistro chairs are marked Jacob and

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Side Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of Four Austrian Art Deco Period Bentwood Bistro Chairs by Kohn

$1,995 / set

Pair of Bentwood Barstools by Otto Gerdau

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Two rare barstools in the Thonet style of bentwood construction with upholstered seats. Made in

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Chairs

Materials

Wood, Naugahyde

Pair of Bentwood Barstools by Otto Gerdau

$675

Cafe/Side Table Thonet Copy Arthur Court

Located in Camden, ME

of an early rare Thonet Bentwood table redone in metal. The metal tubes are faux-painted to look like

Category

Vintage 1970s American Gueridon

Cafe/Side Table Thonet Copy Arthur Court

$2,600

"The Fornitures of Bystrice Pod Hostynem, " Thonet Book

Located in Vienna, AT

A book about the history of the most important Thonet bentwood furniture factory in Bystryce pod

Category

1990s Czech Books

Materials

Paper

"The Fornitures of Bystrice Pod Hostynem, " Thonet Book

$42 / item

A Fledermaus Settee by Josef Hoffmann

By Josef Hoffmann, Gebrüder Thonet Vienna GmbH

Located in Austin, TX

Thonet in 1910. The bentwood construction features simple, clean lines and plenty of negative space

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Settees

Materials

Ash, Upholstery

A Fledermaus Settee by Josef Hoffmann

$7,500

A Pair of Josef Hoffmann Fledermaus Arm Chairs

By Gebrüder Thonet Vienna GmbH, Josef Hoffmann

Located in Austin, TX

manufactured by Thonet in 1910. The bentwood construction features simple, clean lines and plenty of

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Chairs

Materials

Ash

A Pair of Josef Hoffmann Fledermaus Arm Chairs

$6,500

A Pair of Josef Hoffmann Fledermaus Side Chairs

By Gebrüder Thonet Vienna GmbH, Josef Hoffmann

Located in Austin, TX

manufactured by Thonet in 1910. The bentwood construction features simple, clean lines and plenty of

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Vienna Secession Chairs

Materials

Ash

A Pair of Josef Hoffmann Fledermaus Side Chairs

$5,000

Louis XVI Style Wooden Stool with "Vienna Straw" Seat

Located in Prato, Tuscany

Michael Thonet (father of bentwood) who in 1842 created the chair nr.4 for the Daum coffee on the

Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Stools

Materials

Oak

Louis XVI Style Wooden Stool with "Vienna Straw" Seat

$1,162

George Nelson Pretzel Chair

By Herman Miller, George Nelson

Located in Highland, IN

“Superleggera” (super-lightweight) chair, the design also references Michael Thonet's bentwood armchair

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Walnut, Birch

George Nelson Pretzel Chair

$3,100

Thonet Rocking Chair in Bentwood and Cane

By Thonet

Located in Norwalk, CT

A timeless, classical design, this bentwood masterpiece would look great in any room.

Category

Early 20th Century Rocking Chairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Thonet Rocking Chair in Bentwood and Cane

$760

4 Pc. Thonet Bentwood Armchairs Made in Italy

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Rare set of four dining height Thonet bentwood arm chairs, Vienna Secessionist style, circa 1970’s

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Vienna Secession Armchairs

Materials

Bentwood

4 Pc. Thonet Bentwood Armchairs Made in Italy

$2,200

Set of Four Thonet Armchairs in Bentwood, Austria, 1890

By Thonet

Located in Almelo, NL

Set of four Thonet armchairs in bentwood, Austria 1890, in good original condition with a great

Category

Antique 1890s Austrian Vienna Secession Armchairs

Materials

Bentwood

Set of Four Thonet Armchairs in Bentwood, Austria, 1890

$2,500

Thonet Bentwood and Bakelite Chairs, 1930 s

By Thonet

Located in Rochester, NY

Pair of Thonet bentwood chairs in red and salmon factory painted finish to bakelite seats and

Category

Vintage 1930s American Bauhaus Chairs

Materials

Bakelite, Beech, Bentwood

Thonet Bentwood and Bakelite Chairs, 1930 s

$750

Bentwood High Bar Stools in Thonet Style, Italy 70s, Pair

By Thonet

Located in Lucija, SI

Nice pair of bentwood high bar stools made in Itally in the 70s

Category

Vintage 1920s Italian Art Nouveau Stools

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Bentwood High Bar Stools in Thonet Style, Italy 70s, Pair

$1,364

Mid Century Bentwood Bar Stools in Thonet Style, Italy 70s, Pair

By Thonet

Located in Lucija, SI

Thonet style Bar Chairs were made in Italy in '70s. They are made of brown bentwood (beech wood

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Art Nouveau Stools

Materials

Rattan, Bentwood

Mid Century Bentwood Bar Stools in Thonet Style, Italy 70s, Pair

$1,008

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

By Thonet

Located in San Carlos, CA

For Sale: Gorgeous Antique Thonet Bentwood Chair with Cane Seating Add a touch of timeless

Category

Vintage 1930s Austrian Art Deco Side Chairs

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

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

$490

20th Century Bentwood Sofa in the Thonet Style, circa 1925, Caned Seat

By Thonet

Located in Miami, FL

20th century bentwood sofa in the Thonet style, circa 1925, caned seat This sofa it´s very heavy

Category

Vintage 1920s Spanish Spanish Colonial Sofas

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

20th Century Bentwood Sofa in the Thonet Style, circa 1925, Caned Seat

$3,500

Bentwood High Bar Stools in Thonet style, Italy, 1970s, Set of 2

By Thonet

Located in Lucija, SI

Nice pair of bentwood high bar stools in Thonet style Made in Italy 70s

Category

Vintage 1920s Italian Art Nouveau Stools

Materials

Cane, Bentwood

Bentwood High Bar Stools in Thonet style, Italy, 1970s, Set of 2

$1,602

Midcentury Bentwood Hall Tree or Coat Rack in the Style of Thonet

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

A midcentury dark brown bentwood hall tree or coat rack in the style of Thonet. Two rows of hooks

Category

Vintage 1960s European Mid-Century Modern Coat Racks and Stands

Materials

Bentwood

Midcentury Bentwood Hall Tree or Coat Rack in the Style of Thonet

$1,850

Michael Thonet Stool Side Table in Cane and Bentwood, Austria, 1960s

By Thonet, Michael Thonet

Located in South Charleston, WV

Measures: 15.5" x 15.5" x 15.5" All original Thonet stool in all original condition and outstanding

Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Stools

Materials

Cane, Rattan, Bentwood

Michael Thonet Stool Side Table in Cane and Bentwood, Austria, 1960s

$1,295

Set of 4 Bentwood Dining Chairs EMBOSSED SEATS Made in Austria by Thonet

By Michael Thonet, Thonet

Located in Buffalo, NY

Exceptional and rare set of four cafe, bistro style dining chairs, marked "Thonet', design

Category

Vintage 1910s Austrian Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Beech, Bentwood

Set of 4 Bentwood Dining Chairs EMBOSSED SEATS Made in Austria by Thonet

$1,780

Set of Six Thonet 209 Bentwood and Cane Dining Chairs

By August Thonet, Thonet

Located in Houston, TX

Beautiful set of 6 sculptural Thonet 209 dining chairs. Designed by Auguste Thonet for Thonet

Category

Antique Early 1900s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood, Cane

Set of Six Thonet 209 Bentwood and Cane Dining Chairs

$2,800

Bentwood Cafe Dining Table Att. to Thonet Made in Italy circa 1970’s

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Chic voguish Vienna Secessionist style cafe dining table made in Italy circa 1970’s. Steam bent wood base, faux wood formica top. It’s medium scale makes this table easy to place and...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Vienna Secession Dining Room Tables

Materials

Laminate, Bentwood

Bentwood Cafe Dining Table Att. to Thonet Made in Italy circa 1970’s

$1,200

Rustic French Bentwood Chair in the Style of Thonet, circa 1940

By Thonet

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Bentwood chair by unknown designer and manufacturer in the style of Thonet. Made in France, circa

Category

Vintage 1940s French Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Wood

Rustic French Bentwood Chair in the Style of Thonet, circa 1940

$1,845

Assembled Set of Seven Viennese Thonet Bentwood Chairs

By Michael Thonet

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Impressive set of seven assembled Thonet bentwood chairs made in Poland by Mundus J. and J. Kohn

Category

20th Century Polish Vienna Secession Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bentwood

Assembled Set of Seven Viennese Thonet Bentwood Chairs

$3,000

Vintage Thonet Style Bentwood Wall Coat Rack with Curved Hooks, 20th Century

By Thonet

Located in San Carlos, CA

Thonet Style Wall-Mounted Bentwood Coat Rack, Early to Mid-20th Century Dimensions: Height: 14 in

Category

Early 20th Century Austrian Industrial Coat Racks and Stands

Materials

Bentwood

Vintage Thonet Style Bentwood Wall Coat Rack with Curved Hooks, 20th Century

$380

Classic Antique Thonet Bentwood Cafe Armchairs

By Thonet, J J Kohn Mundus

Located in Rochester, NY

A matched set of four Thonet Bentwood cafe armchairs in the style of Mundus. All chairs in original

Category

Early 20th Century American Armchairs

Materials

Bentwood, Faux Leather

Classic Antique Thonet Bentwood Cafe Armchairs

$1,000

Set of 4 Mid Century Bentwood Armchairs Made in Yugoslavia after Thonet

By Thonet

Located in New York, NY

manner of Thonet. Total H 32.5 x Arm H 28 x Seat H 19 inches.

Category

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

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Set of 4 Mid Century Bentwood Armchairs Made in Yugoslavia after Thonet

$900

Lounge Chairs in Bentwood and Leather by Christoph Zschocke for Thonet, 1990s

By Thonet

Located in Morazzone, Varese

Christoph Zschocke in 1990s and produced by Thonet Germany. The lounge chairs are made of solid, heavy beech

Category

1990s German Bauhaus Lounge Chairs

Materials

Leather, Beech, Plywood

Lounge Chairs in Bentwood and Leather by Christoph Zschocke for Thonet, 1990s

$3,322

Pair of Chairs in Curved Bentwood in Black Lacquer Straw Seat Thonet

By August Thonet

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Pair of chairs in curved bentwood in black lacquer straw seat August Thonet style.

Category

Vintage 1950s Chairs

Materials

Straw, Wood

Pair of Chairs in Curved Bentwood in Black Lacquer Straw Seat Thonet

$1,661

Mid Century Side Table in Bentwood Attributed to Thonet

By Alvar Aalto, Thonet

Located in New York, NY

Nice diminutive side, or end table of blonde bentwood with circular wood top. Design and

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern End Tables

Materials

Birch

Mid Century Side Table in Bentwood Attributed to Thonet

$165

Set of Five 1950s Thonet Bentwood Chairs

By Thonet, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Glendale, CA

Set of five 1950s Thonet bentwood chairs. Executed in bentwood with black vinyl seat and back

Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Naugahyde, Bentwood

Set of Five 1950s Thonet Bentwood Chairs

$3,975

Seating Under $2,000

Antique and Vintage Seating

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Thonet In Bentwood For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the thonet in bentwood you’re looking for at 1stDibs. A thonet in bentwood — often made from wood, bentwood and natural fiber — can elevate any home. Your living room may not be complete without a thonet in bentwood — find older editions for sale from the 19th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 20th Century. A thonet in bentwood, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Art Nouveau or Art Deco style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. Thonet, Michael Thonet and Ludvik Volak each produced at least one beautiful thonet in bentwood that is worth considering.

How Much is a Thonet In Bentwood?

Prices for a thonet in bentwood can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $165 and can go as high as $9,812, while the average can fetch as much as $1,950.

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 In Bentwood

What is a bentwood chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
A bentwood chair is a chair made out of wood that has been steamed and formed into its desired shape. The iconic No. 14 chair made by Thonet is a well-know chair made in this technique. There are many bentwood chairs for sale on 1stDibs.
What is a bentwood box?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
A bentwood box is a traditionally crafted style of a box from a single piece of wood that has been steamed and bent to form a box. Three of its four corners are bent at a 90-degree angle, with the fourth corner pinned, stitched, or glued in place. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary bentwood boxes from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do I identify a Thonet?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
To identify a Thonet, first locate the maker's marking. On Thonet chairs, you'll usually find it carved into the wood frame on the underside of the seat. Markings may say “Thonet,” “Thonet Wien,” “GT,” “GBThonet” or “GBThonetWien,” depending on the age of your piece. Cross-reference the mark with information published on trusted online resources to get a rough idea of when your furniture was produced. Then, you can review Thonet catalogues available online to identify your piece's model number. Alternatively, you can enlist the help of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer to perform the identification process for you. Shop a wide range of Thonet furniture on 1stDibs.
What is Thonet furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Thonet is a well known furniture company that was started by Michael Thonet in 1830 as he experimented with bentwood furniture. The brand is known for producing high-quality products with exquisite craftsmanship. Shop a collection of Thonet furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
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.
How do I identify a bentwood chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
To identify a bentwood chair, look closely at its back. With a real bentwood chair, an artisan achieves the curved effect by steaming or soaking wood and then bending it. As a result, you won't normally see any tool marks that indicate carving, and each curved component will be an individual piece that is screwed, glued or bolted together. If you spot the “Thonet” name on the seat, it's another good indication that your chair is bentwood, as the maker was famous for this type of seating. If you're still unsure about the type of chair you have, consider seeking the opinion of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. Explore a selection of bentwood chairs on 1stDibs.
How old are bentwood rockers?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A bentwood rocking chair was introduced in the mid-1800s by Michael Thonet. Bentwood furniture is a signature of the furniture manufacturer Thonet — Michael produced chairs out of steam-bent wood, and starting in the middle of the 19th century, he produced a series of rockers. Shop a range of bentwood rocking chairs and furniture on 1stDibs.
How do I identify bentwood chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
To identify a bentwood chair, search the piece for a maker's mark. Most often, you will find it under the seat. Once you have located the marking, consult trusted online resources to learn more about the maker. From there, you can find chairs similar to yours in online catalogues to gain more information about your piece. Another option is to have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer assist you with the identification process. On 1stDibs, shop a diverse assortment of bentwood chairs.
What are bentwood rockers made of?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
Bentwood rockers are made out of wood that gets heated to a high temperature with steam and then bent. Ash and beech are two popular wood species for bentwood chair production. However, other woods are also suitable for use. On 1stDibs, find a range of bentwood rockers.
Who made bentwood rockers?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Michael Thonet was the original maker of bentwood chairs. He invented the process of bending wood by using vapor to heat and then bend it into shape. You can shop a collection of bentwood chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
When were Bentwood chairs made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
The Bentwood Chair was made by German-Austrian cabinetmaker Michael Thonet in the mid-19th century. His design is still popular with interior designers and homeowners worldwide. Shop a collection of Bentwood chairs from some of the world’s top sellers 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.
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.
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.
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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