Description

This exceptional antique piece is a fascinating example of European material culture, seamlessly bridging the gap between everyday rustic utilitarianism and highly specialized folk history. Crafted in Central Europe—most likely the Alpine regions of Austria, Southern Germany, or Switzerland—this style of board-backed seating is traditionally known as a Brettstuhl. What elevates this specific piece from a standard tavern or kitchen chair is its unique configuration, heavily pointing to a dual-use history as a regional birthing chair.

The chair features a highly distinctive, oversized t-shaped seat flanked by flared "wings" containing deep, integrated hand grips. In historical rural settings, these sturdy side handles allowed a laboring mother to firmly brace herself, utilizing her upper body strength to push against gravity. The backrest is purposely set at a slight backward slant to provide a comfortable, reclined posture favored by historical midwives to assist in the birthing process.

True to the craftsmanship of traditional European folk art, the chair boasts beautiful, primitive cutout motifs. A central quatrefoil (clover) cutout adorns the backrest, symbolizing good fortune and protection, while the top of the back is capped with a prominent integrated loop handle. This upper handle served a purely practical purpose, allowing a midwife or family member to easily lift and transport the heavy, solid-wood piece exactly where it was needed.

Constructed with longevity in mind, the chair sits on beautifully splayed, thick peg legs. The rustic, wedged-through construction ensures absolute stability on uneven surfaces like historic stone or packed dirt floors. Showing a rich, warm patina, historic stable cracks, and honest wear consistent with its age, this captivating piece serves as a striking conversational antique perfect for collectors of medical history, unique folk art, or rustic European furniture.

Interestingly, the owner of this chair said it was imported from Morocco in the 1950’s. This Brettstuhl is very well traveled.  

Estimated Age: Late 19th to Early 20th Century

Region of Origin: Central Europe (Alpine Region: Austria, Switzerland, Southern Germany/Bavaria)

Material: Solid Hardwood (likely Oak or Walnut)

Dimensions: 20" W x 13.5" D x 29.5" H

Condition

Please note all items are "as-is where-is"

Measurement

Dimensions: 20" W x 13.5" D x 29.5" H

Terms and Conditions

1. All items are sold where is, as is.

2. Once payment is completed for item(s) won, the ability to schedule a pick-up time will become available. Scheduling a pick-up time is required.

3. There will be a $20 fee assessed per item not picked up at that time that will be collected prior to bidding again at our auctions. Unlike retail, we do not have the option to store your item. If the item is larger than a standard suitcase (22" x 14" x 10"), we will charge $50 to the card on file per item to move the item.

4. Please plan accordingly as items not picked up are considered "abandoned". Do not bid if you cant pick up this day.

5. You are responsible for ensuring you collect all items at pickup.

6. Legacy uses "Popcorn" or "Extended" bidding. This means if a bid comes in at the last second, it is extended 3 minutes. This is like a live auctioneer saying, "going once" to ensure all bids are exhausted prior to closing.

7. We charge a 12% flat buyers premium on all items.

8. We charge KY State Tax with the exception of vehicles which is collected at the DMV.

9. You must bring help to pickup any items. We can recommend movers upon request. Also, please bring tools for items that require disassembly.

10. Please read our complete terms and conditions for additional details.