The Englishman's Chair: Origins, Design, and Social History of Seat Furniture in England

The Englishmans Chair is a history of English chairs, written as a continuous story from the 15th to the 20th Century, discussing changes in taste, fashion, skill, materials, and the impact of modern industrial designers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 308 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1964, The Englishman's Chair is a comprehensive history of English chairs, spanning from the 15th to the 20th century. Written as a continuous narrative, it delves into the revealing powers inherent in chair-making and design, making it an unconventional footnote to English social history. The book explores the profound changes in taste, fashion, skill, the introduction of new materials, and the enduring struggle between dignity and comfort. It also examines the significant impact that modern industrial designers have had on chair design.

The author delves into the historical context, tracing the evolution of chair design from the ornate and elaborate chairs of the Tudor and Jacobean periods to the simpler and more functional designs of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. They discuss the influence of different styles, such as Gothic, Rococo, and Art Nouveau, on chair design and how these influences shaped the aesthetic preferences of different periods.

The book also explores the technological advancements that have influenced chair design over the centuries. From the development of new materials like wood, metal, and upholstery to the introduction of machinery and automation, the author highlights how these innovations have shaped the production and design of chairs. They discuss the challenges and opportunities that these changes have brought to the chair-making industry, as well as the impact that they have had on the accessibility and affordability of chairs for the general public.

In addition to its historical and technical aspects, The Englishman's Chair also delves into the social and cultural significance of chairs. They discuss how chairs have been used to define and represent social status, power, and hierarchy throughout history. They explore the role that chairs have played in religious ceremonies, political gatherings, and domestic settings, and how they have influenced the way people interact and communicate with each other.

The book also offers a critical analysis of the design principles and aesthetics that have guided chair design throughout history. They discuss the importance of ergonomics, comfort, and functionality in chair design, and how these principles have evolved over time. They examine the ways in which designers have sought to balance the visual appeal of chairs with their practical and functional aspects, and how they have experimented with different materials, shapes, and styles to achieve this balance.

Overall, The Englishman's Chair is a fascinating and insightful exploration of the history, design, and cultural significance of English chairs. It provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the changes in taste, fashion, skill, and technology that have shaped the evolution of chair design over the centuries. Through its detailed and analytical approach, the book offers valuable insights into the social, cultural, and technical aspects of chair-making, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the history and design of furniture.

Weight: 884g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032367255