13 Vintage Furniture Pieces That Collectors Love
Vintage furniture isn’t just about filling a room; it’s about owning a piece of history that reflects the craftsmanship and style of the time. What was once dismissed as old-fashioned (and even boring) is now commanding prices fit for royalty, with collectors clamoring for everything from ornate mid-century classics to sleek Art Deco designs. From an 18th-century commode that sold for over a million dollars to elusive Eames chairs, here are 13 of the most expensive and lavish examples of vintage furniture we could find.
1. Chippendale Mahogany Sofa
This ultra-posh Chippendale mahogany sofa from the late 18th century is selling for an astonishing $28,000 on 1stDibs. Praised for its intricate carvings and detailing that include a “serpentine back and floral needlepoint upholstery,” the sofa offers a unique glimpse into the fine craftsmanship of the era. But if you don’t have nearly $30k laying around, you can opt for this much more affordable (and newer) version that’s selling for just $1,000.
2. Louis XV Kingwood Commode
This opulent 18th-century commode epitomizes all the glitz and glamour of French luxury at its finest. Adorned with intricate marquetry, gilded floral motifs, and lavish ormolu mounts, it sold for over a million dollars at a Christie’s auction in 2023. But what truly sets the piece apart is its dramatic provenance: Originally crafted for Baron Édouard de Rothschild in Paris, it was confiscated by German soldiers during the Nazi occupation of France and hid in salt mines before being recovered in 1946.
3. Mid-Century Dining Table by Hans Wegner
This early teak dining set by acclaimed Danish designer Hans Wegner is selling for nearly $20,000 online, showcasing the enduring appeal of mid-century modern design (particularly in this minimalist style). Praised for its sleek, ergonomic design and understated elegance, collectors are willing to pay top dollar to own a piece of Wegner’s legacy.
4. George II Mahogany Armchair
This rare armchair, crafted in the mid-1700s, fetched a jaw-dropping £20,400 (about $25,609) at a 2006 auction due to its intricate carvings, rarity, and historical significance. Featuring a high back, cabriole legs, and rococo-style embellishments, it was considered a masterpiece of its time. The chair’s provenance, which was linked to a noble family, added to its value.
5. Eileen Gray ‘Dragon’ Armchair
Dubbed the “world’s priciest chair,” this armchair from the early 20th century sold for a staggering $28 million (you read that right!) at an auction in 2009. Designed by acclaimed artist Eileen Gray in an edgy Art Deco style, the chair featured intricate dragon motifs and fine craftsmanship that added to its value. Once owned by French designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, the chair’s celebrity provenance helped further drive up its price tag.
6. Chippendale Mahogany Chest of Drawers
This ornate mahogany chest of drawers, crafted in the late 18th century, is selling for nearly $10,000 online. Celebrated for its intricate carvings, molded edge top, and elegant finish, it exemplifies the lasting appeal of the Chippendale era.
7. Honduran Mahogany Commode by Chippendale
Featuring elaborate carvings, secret compartments, and a refined, glossy finish, this mahogany commode sold for a whopping £3.8 million (about USD$5.7 million) at a Christie’s auction in 2018. Crafted from Indian ebony for Sir Rowland Winn circa 1767, the desk’s rarity and connection to one of the most renowned furniture makers in history helped spur its value.
8. Queen Anne Highboy Chest of Drawers
Featuring walnut wood, shell-carved drawers, and intricate marquetry, this three-piece mahogany chest from the ’80s is valued at around $2,500. Cherished for their storage capacity and decorative appeal, these traditional tall chests are indeed beautiful. In a previous auction, a Queen Anne side chair made out of maple wood, also sold for a staggering $125,000.
9. Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman
Originally designed in 1956, this luxurious lounge chair and ottoman set by Ray and Charles Eames sold at auction for $6,500 in 2023. Known for its sleek lines and innovative use of materials at the time, the Eames line has become synonymous with wealth and prestige. While collectors have been known to clamor for genuine pieces of Eames furniture, you can buy a reproduction (named Emma, so close enough) for a fraction of the price, at around $1,500.
10. Gustav Stickley Oak Rocking Chair
This signed Gustav Stickley rocking chair from the Arts and Crafts movement is listed for nearly $1,500 on 1stDibs. Known for its simplistic style and durability, the piece reflects Stickley’s dedication to functional yet beautiful design. The chair’s clean lines and original finish helped elevate its overall value. You can also buy an even cheaper, unsigned version for $900.
11. Ming Dynasty Huanghuali Armchairs
According to GoBankingRates, Ming Dynasty huanghuali armchairs and tables have been known to fetch millions of dollars at auction (up to $9.7 million for a complete set). Made from an exceptionally rare type of rosewood, these armchairs showcase traditional Chinese joinery techniques. Its historical significance coupled with the scarcity of huanghuali wood make it a cherished germ among vintage furniture collectors.
12. Victorian Wooton Desk
This Victorian-era Wooton desk, also known as the “king of desks,” can fetch thousands of dollars in pristine condition, like this 19th century walnut desk that sold for over $5,000 at a Don Guthery auction. Its intricate compartments and fold-out design made it a marvel item at the time. You can also buy a more affordable version on eBay for around $2,500.
13. George III’s Mahogany Table
Featuring a gilt-tooled green leather writing surface plus triple frieze drawers on each side, this sleek yet simple mahogany table belonged to the late King George III of England. Its tapered legs with brass cappings, castors, and original Hobbs locks reflect some of the more practical innovations of the time, which allowed for easier movement in private libraries. While replicas retail for at least over $2,000, one lucky buyer was able to snag one for just £750 (about $980) at an auction in 2023.