Stickley Bustle Back Bow Arm Morris Recliner Value Guide

The Stickley Bustle Back Bow Arm Morris Recliner is a cornerstone of the American Arts and Crafts movement, blending Gustav Stickley's historic 1900s aesthetic with modern lumbar support. This specific model is highly collectible for its signature steam-bent oak arms and its status as one of the brand's most enduringly popular designs.

What Is Stickley Bustle Back Bow Arm Morris Recliner Worth?

The typical price range for Stickley Bustle Back Bow Arm Morris Recliner is $1,500 - $1,650 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the leather upholstery, specifically looking for cracking, fading, or heavy wear on the bustle cushions.
• The integrity of the steam-bent bow arms, as any warping or structural damage significantly reduces market price.
• Finish quality of the oak, with original 'Onondaga' or 'Fumed' finishes commanding higher prices than refinished pieces.
• Presence of original manufacturer tags or documentation confirming its production in Manlius, New York.

How to Identify Stickley Bustle Back Bow Arm Morris Recliner?

• Look for the laser-engraved Stickley shop mark and joiner's logo typically located on the inner rail or under the arm.
• Verify the presence of quarter-sawn white oak, identifiable by its distinct 'fleck' or 'flake' grain pattern.
• Check for the authentic 'bustle back' cushion configuration, which features multiple horizontal leather segments for ergonomic support.
• Inspect the mechanical reclining hardware for heavy-duty steel construction consistent with post-1990 manufacturing.

History of Stickley Bustle Back Bow Arm Morris Recliner

The Morris chair was originally designed by William Morris's firm around 1866. Gustav Stickley, a leader of the American Arts and Crafts movement, adapted the design in the early 1900s. The modern Bustle Back version combines the historic aesthetic of the bow arm with modern reclining mechanics and cushioned lumbar support, remaining one of Stickley's most iconic and best-selling furniture pieces.