Bernhardt Swivel Barrel Chair Value Guide

- Period
- 1980-1989
- Origin
- United States
- Materials
- Wood frame, foam, upholstery fabric, metal swivel mechanism
- Category
- Bernhardt furniture
This Bernhardt Swivel Barrel Chair is a quintessential example of 1980s Postmodern design, blending Hollywood Regency glamour with the sleek silhouettes popularized by Milo Baughman. Manufactured by the historic Bernhardt Furniture Company, its distinctive channel-back construction and dusty rose feather-patterned damask make it a standout piece of late 20th-century American upholstery.
What Is Bernhardt Swivel Barrel Chair Worth?
The typical price range for Bernhardt Swivel Barrel Chair is $550 - $600 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:
- The structural integrity and smoothness of the internal metal swivel mechanism.
- The condition of the dusty rose damask upholstery, specifically looking for fading or wear on the feather pattern.
- Presence of the original manufacturer's tags which confirms its origin from the Bernhardt Furniture Company.
- The firmness of the foam and wood frame, ensuring the postmodern silhouette has maintained its rounded shape.
How to Identify Bernhardt Swivel Barrel Chair?
- Look for the original Bernhardt Furniture Company manufacturer label typically located under the seat cushion or on the bottom dust cover.
- Verify the channel-back stitching, which should be uniform and deeply recessed into the barrel-shaped frame.
- Check for the heavy-duty metal swivel mechanism at the base that allows for a smooth 360-degree rotation.
- Identify the specific dusty rose damask fabric featuring a repeating feather motif characteristic of 1980s textile trends.
History of Bernhardt Swivel Barrel Chair
This style of chair gained immense popularity during the 1980s as part of the Postmodern design movement. It draws heavy inspiration from Hollywood Regency aesthetics and the barrel chairs of Milo Baughman. This specific piece was manufactured by the Bernhardt Furniture Company, a firm founded in 1889 that shifted toward sleek, rounded upholstered goods during the late 20th century.
Shop Similar

Vintage Dansen Milo Baughman Style 1980's Modern S…
chairish.com · $599

Milo Baughman Style Mid Century Swivel Barrel Loun…
midcenturywarehouse.com · $2995

Milo Baughman Style Mid Century Swivel Barrel Loun…
etsy.com · $3347

Oatmeal Type Fabric Scallop Barrel Back Lounge - a…
chairish.com · $4080

1980's Dusty Rose Swivel Chair at 1stDibs
1stdibs.com

Mid Century Swivel Chairs Pair
liveauctioneers.com
Related Items
Have an antique to identify?
Get an instant AI appraisal with values, history, and market insights.
Download for iPhone




