Back to design school, and a little bit more of what I’ve been learning…
Apparently, the construction of Greek furniture pieces was heavily influenced by the work of the Egyptians in materials and technique, although in style, ornamentation and motif, these pieces were quite distinct. Oak, cedar, olive and boxwood as well as imported species such as maple and ebony were common building materials, with wood veneering, mortise & tenon joinery, and copper, bronze or iron metalwork frequently employed techniques. It is also thought that leather and vegetable cords were woven to create seats, and that embroidered linens and animal skins may have been transformed into cushions. Animal skin cushions eh? No kidding!
Anyway, to this day these ancient classical forms provide a basis for modern western architecture and furniture design.
For instance, the Klines was the precursor for our contemporary couch (for reclining, eating or sleeping of all things) and the simple, elegant Klismos, with its concave back, square seat and sabre legs, remains one of the world’s most popular – and most reproduced – chairs.
Greek motifs have been the subject of numerous revivals and continue to be in fashion. In particular, Greek keys have been popping up everywhere lately, from House Beautiful to design blogs like Apartment Therapy, Style Court and Elements of Style.
So, what once was old is new again…
- With help from Furniture in History, by Leslie Pina.
- Image Credits: Furniture Sketch from Furniture Styles, Greek Interior from waycoolpics.blogspot.com, Martha Stewart Klismos Chair from Bernhardt Furniture, and Bathroom and Throw Cushion images courtesy of Domino.
