Liberty & Co. – Arts & Crafts Mahogany Armchair with Art Nouveau Back

This Arts & Crafts mahogany armchair was made by Liberty & Co. around 1900. Its form reflects the transitional dialogue between the Arts & Crafts Movement (1880 to 1910) and the emerging Art Nouveau aesthetic. The composition unites a sculptural organic back with elegantly restrained joinery typical of Liberty’s refined house style.

The high back features a pierced splat with sinuous, plant-like curves flowing into the crest rail, echoing Art Nouveau’s natural line. In contrast, the front legs and stretchers reference Queen Anne revival design, merging historical craftsmanship with contemporary expression. The chair’s solid mahogany frame and proportionate construction demonstrate the firm’s attention to material quality and silhouette.

Such pieces were retailed through Liberty’s Regent Street showrooms as part of their “Art Furniture” range, bridging vernacular English form with continental design influence. The example remains in good condition, with light wear consistent with age and original finish intact.