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Windsor Continuous-Bow Arm Chair

The compound bent, single piece of wood that forms the back and arms on continuous-bow Windsor armchair attracts more attention than all other Windsor chair forms. First made in New York City about 1790, it is truly an exclusive American design innovation and represents a high point in the craft of chair-making.

The compound bends on the continuous-bow armchair are produced out of one long narrow piece of wood, steamed and bent to shape in a form.

The arm spindles are rived or split with the wood grain from a log. The result is a very strong spindle, yet the appearance of being very delicate.

Available with bamboo-style or New York-style turnings on the legs, stretchers and arm spindle. The hand holds are spoon-shaped.

Many different types of wood can be used:

Legs: Oak, Cherry, Maple, Birch

Seat: Oak, Cherry, Butternut Walnut, Pine

Bow, Arms, Spindles: Red Oak, White Oak, Ash, Hickory

Oak with oil finish

Although the chairs were originally painted various colors, today some people enjoy an oil finish that displays the beauty of the wood. Both finishes are offered.

These chairs are handmade using the same methods used over 200 years ago.

Price: $600.00 each

Other Windsor Chair designs available.

I received Blue Ribbons on both chairs in 2004 at the Lincoln County Fair in Troy, Missouri and at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville, Missouri.

Last updated: July 11, 2007