Windsor Ash And Elm Splat Back Armchair - Circa 1860-18890

The Windsor Splatback Armchair is a classic chair style that became popular in England during the 18th and 19th centuries, characterized by a distinctive backrest design and sturdy craftsmanship. What we like is the instant appeal and comfort they achieved which made this chair style an all round winner.

Origins

• The Windsor chair has its roots in England, with its origins dating back to the early 18th century. By the 19th century, the design had evolved and spread, particularly to America where it became a staple in colonial homes.
• The Windsor chair is believed to have originated in the town of Windsor, Berkshire, England, giving the chair its name. It started as an outdoor garden chair but gradually became popular for indoor use as well.
• The splatback design became more prominent in the 19th century. The term "splat" refers to the central, flat, decorative piece of wood that forms the middle of the backrest. This design feature added elegance and comfort to the chair, making it suitable for both formal and casual settings.

Materials

• The Windsor Splatback Armchair is typically made of ash and elm, which were chosen for their durability, ease of working, and availability in England during the period.
  • Ash wood was commonly used for the chair's legs and spindles (the turned or straight rods making up the frame), as it is strong and flexible.
  • Elm wood was used for the seat, as it is resistant to splitting and could be carved into comfortable, contoured shapes.
• Other woods like oak or beech might also be used, but ash and elm were the most typical combinations due to their contrasting strengths and grain patterns.

Design

• The splatback is a defining feature of this chair. It is a wide, flat, vertical panel that runs down the center of the chair’s back, adding both structural support and a decorative element. The splat often features pierced designs or delicate carvings, such as simple floral or geometric motifs.
• The chair typically has a saddle-shaped seat, which was hand-carved to offer better ergonomic support.
• The legs are usually turned, meaning they were shaped on a lathe to create rounded and decorative forms, a common feature in traditional English furniture design.
• The arms of the chair curve outward, creating a welcoming, wide stance. This arm design allowed for greater comfort and a sense of formality, especially in armchair versions used at the head of a table.

Uses

• Initially, Windsor chairs were outdoor or kitchen pieces, but by the 19th century, they were often used indoors as dining chairs, writing chairs, or as statement pieces in formal sitting rooms.
• The armchair version added more status and comfort, often serving as a master's chair at dining tables or as a desk chair in offices or studies.
• Windsor chairs, particularly the armchair varieties, were also commonly used in public settings such as courtrooms, taverns, and assembly halls because they were lightweight yet durable and could be easily moved.

Stylistic Evolution

• The Windsor chair underwent several stylistic changes during the 19th century. While earlier versions featured a more rustic appearance, 19th-century versions had more refined lines and were often painted or stained to suit more formal interior settings.
• The splatback version allowed for more intricate craftsmanship, which became a symbol of skill and taste. This made them more desirable for middle- and upper-class homes.

This 19th-century Windsor Splatback Ash Elm Armchair is a finely crafted piece that blends functionality with decorative design. Its combination of durable materials like ash and elm, together with its elegant back splat and ergonomic seating, made it both a practical and stylish choice for homes and public spaces during that era.