This is a traditional three slat, ladder back Shaker chair. It is constructed with hand turned posts and spindles, mortise and tenon joinery, and bent laminated back slats. The tops of the back posts on this chair feature hand turned ‘flame’ finials. Shaker chairs come with an option of ‘flame,’ ‘broomstick,’ or no finial.
The chair is treated with iron acetate (a non-toxic treatment) prior to the application of the finish, which ebonizes the cherry to a deep brown black color. This treatment, unlike stain and dye, treats the wood by reacting with its own tannic acid. This leaves a coloring that is almost translucent, allowing the wood’s natural character and grain pattern to shine through.