Description

Celebrate the quiet beauty of the Arts & Crafts movement with this elegant Morris Sussex Chair. It is a timeless design inspired by William Morris. Morris & Co. first produced it in the late 19th century. This example features the classic diamond-back, and its original hand-woven rush seat. These details reflect the honest craftsmanship that defined the era.

The Sussex Chair was admired for its simplicity, durability, and rural charm. Its design drew inspiration from traditional English country chairs, elevating humble forms into objects of refined, functional beauty. Today, these chairs remain highly collectible and sit effortlessly in both period and contemporary interiors.

This piece adds warmth, character, and authenticity. It is an ideal accent for hallways, bedrooms, and reading corners. It also fits well in a curated Arts & Crafts display.

History:

• Designed in the 1860s–1870s and produced by Morris & Co., the Sussex Chair became one of the firm’s most iconic and accessible designs.
• Inspired by Sussex country chairs, it reflected Morris’s philosophy. “Have nothing in your house that you do not know is useful or believe is beautiful.”
• The spindle back and rush seat reflect the movement’s emphasis on natural materials and visible craftsmanship.
• These chairs were widely used in Morris interiors. Liberty & Co. later sold them in stores. They became a key part of Arts & Crafts home design.

Key Features:

• Authentic Arts & Crafts Period Sussex chair.
• Diamond back with turned supports.
• Original rush seat in lovely aged condition.
• Solid wood frame with warm, natural patina.
• Elegant, lightweight, and beautifully proportioned.
• A classic Morris design with enduring appeal.

Benefits:

• Highly decorative: Instantly adds Arts & Crafts charm to any room.
• Collectible: A sought‑after Morris design with strong historical value.
• Versatile: Works as a side chair, bedroom chair, hallway piece, or display accent.
• Sustainable: Made from natural materials, wood and hand‑woven rush.
• Timeless design: Complements both period interiors and modern minimalist spaces.

Condition Report:

• Original Condition with great patina; one slightly loose diamond-back spindle.
• Rush Seat: Original and intact with expected mellowing; no breaks or sagging.
• Finish: Warm, even patina enhancing the natural grain.

Dimensions:

• Height: 85 cm
• Seat Height: 30 cm
• Width: 43 cm
• Length: 49 cm