Church chairs likely a century old

Posted 10/3/15

Q.

I am looking to date two American Seating Company chairs that I have owned for quite some time. They are a Bishop's chair and an assistant/side chair—part of the past Ecclesiastical/Church Department of the American Seating Company. They …

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Church chairs likely a century old

Posted

Q.

I am looking to date two American Seating Company chairs that I have owned for quite some time. They are a Bishop's chair and an assistant/side chair—part of the past Ecclesiastical/Church Department of the American Seating Company. They are quite heavy solid oak, carved oak backs, leather seats, and in excellent condition. I contacted a representative of the company, but they were unable to help. I would be appreciative of any help with the identification and to find out the age of the two pieces.

A.
American Seating Company is one of the largest institutional seating companies in the world. Originally known for their school furniture, they produce all types of institutional types of furniture including folding chairs, theater and stadium seating. American Seating has been known by this name since 1906. It was formed from several school furniture companies in Michigan.

From as early as 1906, American Seating had a Church Division. In addition to making church pews, they made ecclesiastical chairs, statuary, plaques and architectural details. Many pieces were specially ordered. The company had two award-winning master carvers: Alois Lang and Joseph F. Wolters. Lang was employed from 1906 and Wolters started in 1923.

The Church Division was in operation until 1969. However, looking at the stamped plaque on your pieces, I would pin these chairs down to somewhere between 1906 and 1930. In 1931, American Seating changed their logo. Furthermore, the style, construction and dark finish on the oak of your chairs leads me to believe they are from that period.

If the pieces were made by one of these makers, there will be most likely a signature. Lang signed most of his pieces “A.Lang.” Most of Lang’s and Wolter’s work ended up in churches in the Midwest. If you could determine what church the chairs came from, this would further help to date them. For further reading on American Seating, go to www.furntiurecityhistory.org.

Karen Waterman is a fine art, antique furniture and decorative arts appraiser in the East Bay area and will answer as many questions regarding your “hidden treasures” as possible. By sending a letter or email with a question you give full permission for use in the column. Names, addresses or e-mail will not be published and photos will be returned if requested. Send e-mails (digital photos preferred ) to watermanappraisal@gmail.com. Send snail mail to Waterman Appraisal and Consulting Services, P.O. Box 134, Barrington, RI 02806.

karen waterman

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