ALL THINGS STICKLEY
If you thought that a love and appreciation for all things local and artisanal is a new trend, we’ve got news for you: between 1880 and 1920 the OG artistinal movement, the Arts and Crafts movement, swept through Britain, North America and other parts of the globe. During this period, Gustav Stickley became a huge supporter of the American craftsman style of furniture and his company Stickley Furniture became a champion for the handcrafted and functionally simple style of furniture. Want to know more about Stickley Furniture? You've got it!
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE STICKLEY FURNITURE
Founded by the Stickley brothers, the main man behind the firm’s vision and mission was the oldest brother, Gustav Stickley. Stickley believed in the motto of ls Ik Kan, which is an old Flemish craftsman phrase that means “to the best of my ability.” The firm also established and published the The Craftsman magazine, which became a strong voice in spreading the Arts and Crafts philosophy (think traditional craftsmanship and anti-industrial) far and wide. Irene Sargent, a professor at Syracuse University, was the editor of the magazine and is credited with being a leading advocate of the Arts and Crafts movement.
STICKLEY FURNITURE AND MISSION STYLE — WHAT'S THE CONNECTION?
If you've heard these two phrases being talked about in the same breath and didn't know why, here’s the lowdown: Mission style furniture took off in the late 19th century, after a chair made by A.J. Forbes for San Francisco's Swedenborgian Church in 1894 was copied and popularized by a New York furniture maker in 1898 (snaps to those marketing chops!). The word “Mission” is only a hat tip to the presence of Spanish Missions in California. Apparently, Gustav Stickley didn’t really care for the association of Stickley furniture with Mission style, even though both styles appear to have a lot in common.
THE AUDI FAMILY
After the passing of the Stickley brothers, the Audi family took over the production of Stickley furniture. Design lovers knew that EJ Audi’s Manhattan showroom was the go-to place for a Stickley sofa or a Stickley chair. The current generation of the Audi family continues to helm the production of the beautiful craftsman style furniture and we, for one, are SO thankful!
THE STICKLEY MASCOT — THE MORRIS CHAIR
If there is a single piece of furniture that is a Stickley design to the T, it is the Morris chair. We like to think of the Stickley Morris chair as the unofficial mascot of Stickley furniture. Designed by William Morris (another big name in the Arts and Craft movement), this Stickley chair is a classic example of the brand and its values. Equal parts comfortable and stylish, this boxy chair with a high seat back is a piece of furniture we can really get behind. With slatted sides and long arms, some furniture enthusiasts like to think of this as a predecessor to the recliner. While the Morris chair is mostly found in upholstered in leather, there are heavy-weight textile options too, making this comfortable and stylish chair equally at home in a cabin, cottage or condo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Stickley furniture hold its value?
Stickley furniture is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless designs, which contribute to its ability to retain value over time. While the value of individual pieces may vary based on factors such as age, condition, and market demand, Stickley furniture is generally considered a solid investment for those seeking high-quality, durable furniture.
How can you tell if a chair is a Stickley?
Authentic Stickley furniture often bears the company's distinctive logo, which features a joiner's compass with the words "Stickley" and "Handcraft" or "Since 1900." Additionally, Stickley furniture is characterized by its sturdy construction, mortise-and-tenon joinery, and the use of premium hardwoods like oak and cherry.
Is Stickley furniture Made in USA?
Yes, Stickley furniture is proudly made in the United States. The company has manufacturing facilities in New York and North Carolina, where skilled artisans craft each piece using traditional techniques and high-quality materials.
How old is Stickley furniture?
The Stickley furniture company was founded in 1900 by Gustav Stickley, making it one of the oldest furniture manufacturers in the United States. While the company has evolved over time, it has maintained its commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted furniture for more than a century.
Who makes Stickley furniture?
Stickley furniture is manufactured by the L. & J.G. Stickley, Inc., a family-owned company headquartered in Manlius, New York. The company employs skilled artisans who use a combination of traditional woodworking techniques and modern technology to create each piece of furniture.