Duncan Phyfe Dining Room Chairs

Duncan Phyfe was a renowned furniture maker from Scotland who emigrated to New York City in 1784. He quickly established himself as one of the leading cabinetmakers in the city, and his work is still highly sought-after today. His dining room chairs are particularly prized for their elegant design and superb craftsmanship.

Duncan Phyfe dining room chairs are typically made from mahogany, and they feature a variety of distinctive design elements. These include:

Curved Backs: Duncan Phyfe chairs often have curved backs with a central splat that divides the back into two sections. The splat is often carved with an elegant design, such as a lyre or a sheaf of wheat.
Reeded Legs: The legs of Duncan Phyfe chairs are often reeded, which gives them a distinctive and elegant appearance. Reeding is a technique in which a series of parallel grooves are carved into the wood.
Scrolled Arms: Some Duncan Phyfe chairs have scrolled arms that add to their overall elegance. The scrolls are often carved with delicate designs.

Duncan Phyfe dining room chairs are available in a variety of styles to suit any taste. They can be found in both formal and informal settings, and they are sure to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any dining room.

Caring for Duncan Phyfe Dining Room Chairs

Duncan Phyfe dining room chairs are valuable antiques, and it is important to take proper care of them. Here are a few tips for caring for your Duncan Phyfe chairs:

Keep them out of direct sunlight: Sunlight can damage the finish of your chairs, so it is important to keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible.
Avoid using harsh cleaners: Harsh cleaners can damage the finish of your chairs, so it is important to use only mild cleaners. A mild soap and water solution is usually sufficient for cleaning your chairs.
Don't use abrasive materials: Abrasive materials can scratch the finish of your chairs, so it is important to avoid using them. This includes using steel wool or scouring pads.
Repair any damage promptly: If your chairs are damaged, it is important to repair them promptly. This will help to prevent the damage from becoming worse.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Duncan Phyfe dining room chairs will last for many years to come.

Identifying Duncan Phyfe Chairs

There are a few things you can look for to identify Duncan Phyfe chairs. These include:

Maker's Mark: Duncan Phyfe chairs often have a maker's mark stamped on the bottom of the seat. The maker's mark will usually include the name "Duncan Phyfe" and the date the chair was made.
Design Elements: The design elements of Duncan Phyfe chairs are also distinctive. These include curved backs, reeded legs, and scrolled arms.
Overall Style: Duncan Phyfe chairs have an overall style that is elegant and sophisticated. They are typically made from high-quality materials and feature fine craftsmanship.

If you are unsure whether or not a chair is a Duncan Phyfe chair, it is best to consult with an expert. An expert can help you to identify the chair and determine its value.