Discover London's Furniture Treasures
London, a city brimming with history, culture, and innovation, is home to some of the world's most iconic furniture pieces. From the grandeur of historical palaces to the cutting - edge designs of modern galleries, these furniture items not only serve as functional objects but also as art forms that tell the story of London's rich heritage. Here are some must - see furniture pieces in the capital.tableware in londonwelcome to click on the website to learn more!The Throne of St. Edward
The Throne of St. Edward is one of the most significant and iconic pieces of furniture in London, if not the world. Located in Westminster Abbey, this throne has been used in the coronation ceremonies of British monarchs since 1308. The throne was commissioned by King Edward I to house the Stone of Scone, a symbol of Scottish kingship that was seized by the English king.
Made of oak and covered with gold leaf, the throne's design is a testament to the craftsmanship of the medieval era. The elaborate carvings on the throne depict various religious and mythological scenes. The seat itself is rather simple in comparison to the ornate back and sides, but it holds an immense amount of historical and cultural significance. Every time a new monarch is crowned, they sit on this very throne, connecting the present with a long line of royal predecessors.
Over the centuries, the Throne of St. Edward has undergone several restorations. In 1820, a major restoration was carried out to repair the damage caused by time and use. Today, it stands as a silent witness to the long history of British monarchy and attracts countless visitors who come to see this remarkable piece of furniture and the abbey where so many important events have taken place.
The Chippendale Chairs at Chatsworth House
Chatsworth House, located in Derbyshire but with strong London connections, is home to a collection of exquisite Chippendale chairs. Thomas Chippendale, a renowned 18th - century furniture maker, was based in London. His work became famous for its combination of elegance and functionality, and his designs were highly sought after by the British aristocracy.
The chairs at Chatsworth House are prime examples of Chippendale's Rococo - influenced style. They feature elaborate carvings of foliage, shells, and other natural motifs. The legs of the chairs are often turned and have intricate details, while the backs are usually high and curved, providing both comfort and support. The upholstery on these chairs is typically made of high - quality fabrics, which were carefully chosen to complement the overall design.
Chippendale's chairs were not only popular in England but also had an influence on furniture design across Europe. His book, "The Gentleman and Cabinet - Maker's Director," which was published in 1754, was a best - seller and introduced his designs to a wider audience. The chairs at Chatsworth House are a reminder of the golden age of British furniture making and the influence that London - based designers had on the international stage.
The Eames Lounge Chair at the Design Museum
The Eames Lounge Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1956, is a modern classic that can be seen at the Design Museum in London. This chair was revolutionary in its design, combining comfort, style, and advanced manufacturing techniques.
The Eames Lounge Chair consists of three molded plywood shells that are stacked on top of each other and supported by a base of cast aluminum. The shells are upholstered in leather, which not only adds to the chair's luxurious look but also provides a soft and comfortable seating surface. The design of the chair was based on extensive research into human anatomy, ensuring that it conforms to the natural curves of the body.
When it was first introduced, the Eames Lounge Chair was considered a symbol of modern living. It was featured in many high - profile magazines and was quickly adopted by celebrities and design enthusiasts. Today, it remains a popular choice for both home and office settings. The Design Museum in London showcases this iconic piece, allowing visitors to appreciate its design and understand its impact on modern furniture design.
The George III State Bed at Buckingham Palace
The George III State Bed at Buckingham Palace is a magnificent piece of furniture that reflects the opulence of the Georgian era. This bed was made for King George III and is located in the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace, which are open to the public during certain times of the year.
The bed is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with a large, four - poster frame that is decorated with gold leaf and intricate carvings. The canopy above the bed is made of richly embroidered fabric, which adds to the sense of grandeur. The mattress and bedding are of the highest quality, and the overall design of the bed is intended to create a luxurious and comfortable sleeping environment fit for a king.
The George III State Bed is not only a beautiful piece of furniture but also a historical artifact. It has witnessed many important events and has been used by several monarchs over the years. The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, where the bed is located, are filled with other treasures, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects, making it a must - visit destination for anyone interested in British history and culture.
The Bean Bag Chairs at Tate Modern
Tate Modern, one of the world's most famous modern art museums, is home to a unique collection of bean bag chairs. These chairs, although seemingly simple, have become an iconic part of the museum's experience.
The bean bag chairs are placed in various galleries throughout the museum, allowing visitors to relax and take in the art at their own pace. They are made of soft, colorful fabrics and are filled with small polystyrene beads, which conform to the shape of the person sitting on them. This provides a comfortable and flexible seating option that is different from traditional chairs.
The use of bean bag chairs at Tate Modern is in line with the museum's mission to make art accessible and engaging. They encourage visitors to interact with the art in a more relaxed and informal way. The chairs have also become a popular subject for photography, with many visitors taking pictures of themselves sitting on the bean bags surrounded by modern art. In a way, these bean bag chairs have become a symbol of the modern, inclusive approach to art appreciation that Tate Modern represents.
London's iconic furniture pieces are a diverse and fascinating collection that spans centuries of design and innovation. From the ancient Throne of St. Edward to the modern bean bag chairs at Tate Modern, each piece tells a unique story about the city's history, culture, and artistic achievements. Whether you are a furniture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, these must - see furniture items in London are sure to leave a lasting impression.bookcases in londonwelcome to click on the website to learn more!