Chair - Wood

Ancient colonial plantation/veranda chair made of solid dark hardwood with an exceptionally shaped backrest composed of numerous vertically arranged natural reed/rattan rods. Probably Dutch East Indies/Indonesia, early 20th century, ca. 1900–1930.

The chair displays numerous typical features of colonial seating furniture from Southeast Asia: a broad, slightly reclined back, generously curved armrests, a seat built from individual wooden slats, and a sturdy hardwood construction.

Particularly decorative is the fan-shaped backrest. Numerous narrow natural reed/rattan rods are arranged closely together between the curved wooden elements. The combination of dark hardwood and the warm natural tone of the rattan gives the chair a distinctly attractive, exotically colonial appearance.

The armrests follow a highly curved line and are supported by geometrically designed side elements. The gently curved lath seat and the construction of the backrest also contribute to the airiness typical of tropical furniture.

The exact workshop or manufacturer is not known. Based on design, construction, and material, a origin from the former Dutch East Indies, plausibly Indonesia/Java or Madura, seems plausible. This regional attribution is stylistic and not based on an existing maker’s mark.

The chair possesses a pronounced, authentic patina and is excellent as a characterful single piece for a classic, eclectic, boho, colonial, or wabi-sabi interior.

Highlights

– colonial plantation/veranda chair
– probably Dutch East Indies / Indonesia
– probably early 20th century, ca. 1900–1930
– solid dark hardwood
– exceptional fan-shaped backrest
– back fill consisting of numerous natural reed/rattan rods
– curved broad armrests
– seat surface made of individual wooden slats
– hand-crafted construction
– beautiful old patina
– decorative single piece with pronounced character

Dimensions, approx.:

Height: 95–96 cm
Width: 60–61 cm
Depth: ca. 55 cm
Seat width: ca. 44–45 cm
Seat depth: ca. 48–50 cm

Condition

Ancient, used condition with clear age-related signs of wear. The wood shows scratches, wear, dents, and minor surface damage. The rattan/natural reed filling also has age-related irregularities.

The underside and construction are documented in the photos. Please examine all pictures carefully; they are expressly part of the condition description.

I have not performed any restoration. Previous repairs, additions, or alterations cannot be fully ruled out for a piece of furniture this age.

The information on age and origin is provided to the best of our knowledge based on construction and stylistic features. No maker’s signature or documented provenance is available.