“Morris” Recliner; England, c. 1900.

“Morris” reclining chair; England, c. 1900.
Mahogany wood and pine slats.
Measurements: 91 x 69 x 104 cm.
An Arts & Crafts-style reclining chair, known as the “Morris Chair,” notable for its functional design and the uniqueness of its adjustable reclining mechanism. Crafted from mahogany, it features a structure with straight lines and solid construction, with an articulated backrest that allows its angle to be adjusted using a support rod. The armrests, supported by turned balusters and vertical elements, lend rhythm and lightness to the structure, marking the contrast with the overall robustness of the piece.
The Morris model originated in England around 1866, when architect and designer Philip Webb developed an adjustable-back armchair inspired by traditional models for the firm Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co., founded by William Morris in 1861. Although it is popularly known as the “Morris Chair” due to its association with the firm and the Arts & Crafts movement, its design is attributed to Philip Webb. It was an immediate success, and the model remained in production for decades, giving rise to numerous variations that spread throughout Europe and the United States, especially in the early 20th century. The significance of this model is reflected in its presence in prominent international museum collections, such as the Victoria & Albert Museum, as well as in the collections of the British National Trust and The Huntington in California.