Shaker Rocking Chair History
Shaker furniture is a distinctive style of furniture developed by the united society of believers in christ s second appearing commonly known as shakers a religious sect that had guiding principles of simplicity utility and honesty their beliefs were reflected in the well made furniture of minimalist designs.
Shaker rocking chair history. In addition to arriving at different times in history shaker and mission furniture offer identifying stylistic differences you just have to know what you re looking for. The rockers contact the floor at only two points giving the occupant the ability to rock back and forth by shifting their weight or pushing lightly with their feet. Perhaps the most influential group in the history of the rocking chair the shaker community has done more for the promotion of the rocker as a vital part of the american household than anyone else. And of course there s the widely recognized shaker rocking chair.
During this period rocking chairs were decorated in the empire style and later in victorian style. In their attempt to. Common species included maple pine cherry and walnut. Shaker furniture makers were ahead of their time with a strong focus on form and function.
Differences between shaker and mission furniture. Shaker communities were largely self sufficient. These styles were a far sight different from simply placing any old kind of chair on rocking runners. Shaker rocking chair by the mid 19th century rocking chairs were being designed to be more elaborately ornamented and more comfortable.
New styles were developed as people began to produce rocking chairs in earnest. Antique shaker ladder back rocking chair mushroom arm 19th c from maryland 449 99 make offer antique shaker ladder back rocking chair mushroom arm 19th c from maryland. In the 1820s the shakers created a no frills ladder back chair the shaker rocker with a woven tape seat. This of course resulted in sturdier and better looking rocking chairs as chair and runner were now designed to work together.
Our amish shaker ladder back dining chair embodies shaker style principles. The most recognizable style of shaker chair is the traditional slat or ladder back version but there were many types including those with windsor styling and a rotating chair also known as a revolver. The history of rocking chair styles. Craftsmen made use of local timber that was readily available.
A plail brothers barrel rocking chair with a drop in spring seat and rail backing unmarked is worth 1 500 to 2 500. Shaker furniture can be identified by its round wooden knobs tapered legs and subtle curves.