Ottoman Value & Price Guide

Ottoman collectibles encompass a diverse range of footstools and low seats that serve as both functional furniture and sculptural art. From mid-century modern leather pieces to unique novelty shapes like the iconic leather turtle, these items represent the evolution of home comfort and interior styling.

History of Ottoman

The ottoman originated in the Ottoman Empire as a low, cushioned seat without arms or a back, often piled with pillows for communal lounging. It was introduced to Europe in the late 18th century, where it evolved from a large, wall-to-wall seating arrangement into the smaller, portable footstools and upholstered benches we recognize today. During the 20th century, the ottoman became a staple of modern design. Mid-century masters reimagined the form using molded plywood, chrome, and high-grade leathers, transforming it from a simple footrest into a standalone statement piece. Iconic designs like the Chieftain footstool or the ergonomic Ekornes Stressless series highlight how the ottoman transitioned from a traditional luxury into a hallmark of functionalist home decor.

Value Factors for Ottoman

• Designer Provenance: Pieces attributed to renowned designers or high-end brands like Ekornes command significantly higher prices.
• Material Rarity: Exotic materials such as vintage rattan, whiskey barrel oak, or premium top-grain leather drive up market demand.
• Condition and Patina: Original finishes and well-preserved vintage wear are preferred by collectors over heavily restored or modified items.
• Design Uniqueness: Novelty shapes, such as animal-themed ottomans or specialized sewing stools, often fetch a premium due to their kitsch appeal and rarity.

Tips for Buying Ottoman

• Verify the integrity of the internal frame, especially in mid-century pieces where wooden legs or metal swivels may have loosened over time.
• Inspect the quality of the upholstery, as original leather or period-correct fabric significantly increases the collectible value compared to modern reupholstery.
• Check for manufacturer labels or stamps, particularly for high-end designers like Ekornes or Finn Juhl, to ensure authenticity.
• Look for multi-functional features, such as storage compartments in sewing ottomans or matching sets that include the original lounge chair.

Items in This Collection

• Rattan Ottoman
• Mid-Century Modern Round Ottoman
• Leather Turtle Ottoman
• Mid-Century Modern Leather Ottoman
• Mission Style Footstool
• Mid-Century Lounge Chair with Ottoman
• Whiskey Barrel Ottoman
• Ekornes Stressless Recliner and Ottoman
• Luna Ottoman
• Vintage Armchair with Ottoman
• Vintage Tufted Leather Ottoman
• Stressless Consul Recliner and Ottoman
• Chieftain Footstool
• Singer Sewing Ottoman
• Ekornes Stressless Reno Recliner and Ottoman