Stickley Harvey Ellis Side Chair with Inlay 
– Iconic Arts & Crafts Design, Maker Marked
Stickley Harvey Ellis Side Chair with Inlay
A Stickley Harvey Ellis Side Chair, an iconic piece from Stickley’s renowned collection that celebrates the legacy of the Arts and Crafts movement. Crafted from solid quartersawn white oak, this chair embodies Stickley’s reputation for handcrafted excellence. The high back features three vertical slats with exquisite inlays of holly and ebony, forming stylized floral motifs—a hallmark of Harvey Ellis’s delicate design sensibility.
The seat is upholstered in premium full-grain black leather, offering luxurious comfort while maintaining the chair’s refined simplicity. The subtle arched aprons, slender legs, and precise mortise-and-tenon joinery exemplify the meticulous craftsmanship that defines Stickley furniture. This chair is maker marked with Stickley’s brass plaque and stamped with model numbers 89 353, 304920, 89-0353A-032, and 52900332.
Historical Significance & Design Legacy:
The Harvey Ellis Side Chair represents a pivotal evolution in American furniture design. Harvey Ellis (1852–1904), an influential designer and architect, collaborated briefly with Gustav Stickley, introducing lighter, more elegant forms to the robust Mission style. His designs emphasized graceful proportions, delicate inlays, and a sense of airy sophistication—a stark contrast to the heavier, more utilitarian designs prevalent during the early 20th century.
Stickley’s motto, “Als Ik Kan” (Dutch for “To the best of my ability”), is reflected in every detail of this chair. The quartersawn oak showcases beautiful medullary rays, while the hand-applied finish enhances its natural luster. The inlay work, subtle yet distinctive, adds a layer of artistry rarely found in functional furniture, making this chair a bridge between fine art and craftsmanship.
About Stickley:
Stickley furniture, particularly from the Harvey Ellis collection, has become highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of the Arts and Crafts movement. The chair’s timeless design, coupled with its authentic maker’s mark, adds significant historical and monetary value. Stickley’s enduring reputation for quality ensures that pieces like this not only hold their value but often appreciate over time, especially as interest in handcrafted, sustainable design grows.
Condition:
Good vintage condition with light signs of use. The full-grain leather seat is smooth and intact, showing minimal wear. The solid oak frame remains sturdy with a rich, even finish, exhibiting only minor surface marks consistent with age. No structural issues, cracks, or repairs.
Dimensions:
- Overall: 42.5" H x 17.5" W x 20" D (108 cm x 44.5 cm x 51 cm)
- Seat: 18.5" H x 15" W x 16" D (47 cm x 38 cm x 41 cm)