Necessary Chair

Name/Title

Necessary Chair

Entry/Object ID

1969.202.1 A-B

Description

Chair with removable upholstered seat revealing a fitted compartment for a chamber pot. The crown of the chair has a carved entablature with an open horizontal back splat. The arms of the chair are slightly shaped with fluted lines and are supported by baluster turned supports. There is a deep scalloped wooden skirt between the slightly tapered legs.

Use

Used to support the weight of a person as they used a chamber pot, necessary chairs, or night chairs, were subtle pieces of furniture commonly found in bedroom corners. Most necessary chairs included both a removable slip seat and a skirt that hid the chamber pot from view. More elaborate night chairs also featured upholstery and ornate wood carving.

Furniture Details

Furniture Type

Chair - Arm

Made/Created

Date made

1805 - 1815

Dimensions

Height

34 in

Width

20 in

Depth

18 in

Material

Wood, Linen