1830's Maple & Pine Combback Rocking Chair by Joel Pratt, Junior, Sterling, Mass.

This is a rarity, and in fabulous condition for its age! This lovely combback rocker still retains the original paper label under the seat, which reads "Warranted Chairs, made and sold, by Joel Pratt, Jun., Sterling, (Mass.)" We did some research, and referenced in "The Cabinetmakers of America" by Ethel Hall Bjerkoe, there is a chair made by Joel Pratt, Jun., in the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, also bearing a paper label. This is an exceptional piece of provenance that definitely attributes to the value of this rocker. The dimensions of the rocker are: 22 5/8" wide at the arms, 39 1/2" tall to the top of the comb, and the runners are 27" long. Combback rockers were popular in early America. The ladies would put their shawls over the top of the combback to keep drafts away. The chair has arrow shaped slats, rolled arms, and rug cutter legs. It has a little paint in the cracks, but it is mainly plain wood, maple and pine combined. There are no repairs except for a small screw at the front of the left arm which is an old repair to stabilize the front arm post. This very early American rocking chair looks just beautiful next to a fireplace, and is a unique piece to be enjoyed for many years to come!

Please be patient for seven larger pictures to download!