Victorian Folding Bamboo Rocking Chair With Embroidered Upholstery Appraisal

Victorian Folding 'Bamboo' Rocking Chair with Embroidered Upholstery

This is a Victorian-era folding rocking chair, characterized by its 'bamboo' turned wood construction, which was a popular design motif during that period, mimicking the look of bamboo shoots. The chair features a dark, possibly stained or lacquered, wooden frame, with spindle-like elements and finials on the top of the back stiles. The backrest is composed of multiple horizontal, 'bamboo'-turned rungs, providing a semi-open design. The seat is upholstered with a thick, possibly needlepoint or crewelwork, fabric in a neutral beige or light brown tone, adorned with a vibrant floral and botanical motif. The embroidery showcases a variety of flowers and leaves in shades of red, green, black, gold, and white, arranged in a symmetrical, somewhat stylized pattern. The chair is designed to fold, a practical feature of travel or occasional furniture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The rocking mechanism is integrated into the base, with curved rockers visible beneath the seat. Visible condition issues include some wear and possibly minor staining on the upholstered seat, consistent with its age and use. The wood frame appears to have a consistent patina, suggesting age-appropriate wear without significant damage like cracks or breaks, though closer inspection would be needed to confirm. The craftsmanship suggests a manufactured piece from the late 19th or early 20th century, likely between 1880 and 1920, reflecting the aesthetic trends of the Arts and Crafts or later Victorian periods. The combination of the 'bamboo' turned elements and the embroidered upholstery makes it a distinctive piece of period furniture.