Only the third new chair since 1756 designed for the Bodleian Libraries at Oxford University—home to the Tolkien Archive—the namesake’s rear view evokes the spines of books on shelves. Barber & Osgerby’s 2014 design features a sturdy sled base and seat contours that are comfortable for many hours. In natural or black oiled oak with a coordinating leather cushion, it’s completely handmade by Isokon in the UK.