A club chair is a deep, comfortable upholstered armchair, typically covered in leather, with a low back, broad arms and a generous seat. The name reflects its association with the gentlemen's clubs of London and other cities, where such chairs furnished libraries, reading rooms and smoking rooms.
Large leather armchairs became popular in the later nineteenth century, when coiled springs and improved upholstery transformed comfort, and many Victorian and Edwardian club chairs have deep buttoning, scrolled arms and turned front legs on castors. The type is also strongly associated with the French fauteuil club of the 1920s and 1930s, a more compact, rounded chair with a curved back and arms, made in large numbers in Art Deco style and often found with characterful worn leather. Both forms remain highly desirable. Buyers should examine the frame for soundness, the springs for sagging, and the leather for splits, dryness and later recolouring, while original leather with an even, mellow patina is especially valued. Restoration by a traditional upholsterer can renew a chair while preserving its character. Club chairs suit libraries, studies, bars and sitting rooms equally well.
