The History of the Rocking Chair (Part Two)

In my last post, I began to discuss the history of the rocking chair. Here is the rest of the story!
The first bentwood rocking chair was designed by Michael Thonet, a German craftsman, in 1860. What makes this design different is its graceful shape and light weight design. Thonet used wood that was bent and steamed to make these rocking chairs. Bentwood rocking chairs became famous around the world because of their affordability and gorgeous design. They also spawned countless imitators as well.
During the 1890’s, Neoclassical designs became a trend in the United States. These rocking chairs were influenced by classical Greek and Roman designs, with a hint of Renaissance flair and the artistry of the colonial era.
Then in the 1920s, folding rocking chairs became more popular in Europe and the United States. They were convenient for traveling and could be stored in a much smaller space. By the 1950s, rocking chairs built by Sam Maloof, an American craftsman, gained renown for their durability and deluxe appearance. These rocking chairs are differentiated from other designs by their ski-shaped rockers.
Today, there are countless different rocking chair designs. Basically every type of chair available has been adapted to be able to rock back and forth. They are an excellent addition to any backyard, and you can definitely find a model that suits you perfectly.