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Medieval Settees

MEDIEVAL STYLE

The Middle Ages in Europe followed the end of the Roman Empire, and in this time of change, which preceded the Renaissance, furniture was simple and utilitarian, with most homes having only the necessities like chests and benches. Much of medieval furniture, which was often made in oak or walnut, was built for the elite, particularly the emerging merchant class who owned multiple homes.

Life for many in the medieval era was unstable, and furniture was designed to be functional and portable. Peasants worked the fields for affluent landowners and didn’t have access to literature in the way that nobles and people of the church did (women less so than men). The furniture in their modest dwellings was typically limited to cookware and a handful of stools. Foldable chairs, while uncommon in homes of the early Middle Ages and emblematic of wealth, like all other furnishings of the time, allowed for easy transportation of a household. Trestle tables with detachable legs and collapsible beds were designed to be simply moved from place to place.

Medieval blanket chests were among the most important furniture objects and could further serve as tables or even beds. Some ancient traditions were carried forward to build this sturdy furniture, such as turnery. Although the furniture was minimally designed, embellishments like carvings added elegance to the heavy wood pieces. These details sometimes reflected trends in religious art like rose windows.

By the later Middle Ages, storage pieces like chests of drawers were often adorned with high relief carvings, such as geometric and floral motifs. By the 14th and 15th centuries, design had developed to include more involved pieces like cupboards and desks, while benches frequently doubled as chests with hinged seats. Beds also changed in this era from basic boards to four-post designs with large drapes to keep the sleeper warm. These beds and other medieval bedroom furniture were significant status symbols, passed down through families and used as places to conduct business and receive visitors.

Surviving examples of medieval furniture are very rare, yet its distinctive aesthetics influenced later styles like William and Mary and Arts and Crafts.

Find a collection of medieval seating, garden elements, decorative objects and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Medieval
Very Rare Swiss or German Late Gothic early 16th century "Flachschnitz" Bench
Located in Troy, NY
Unique, decorative, charming bench, front and back panels with intricate and whimsical “flachschnitz” decoration, plain sides, lift top seat to reveal storage space. A very rare exa...
Category

16th Century Swiss Antique Medieval Settees

Materials

Pine

Very Rare Swiss or German Late Gothic early 16th century "Flachschnitz" Bench
Very Rare Swiss or German Late Gothic early 16th century "Flachschnitz" Bench

Very Rare Swiss or German Late Gothic early 16th century "Flachschnitz" Bench

Gothic Turned Wood Settee
By William & Mary
Located in New York, NY
Gilded Age American settee with upholstered seat and carved mahogany frame with spindle detailing. Seat is reupholstered in a bold red wool blend fabric. Circa 1890-1910.
Category

20th Century American Medieval Settees

Materials

Wool, Upholstery, Wood

Gothic Turned Wood Settee
Gothic Turned Wood Settee

Gothic Turned Wood Settee

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Medieval settees for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Medieval settees for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage settees created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include seating and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, animal skin and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Medieval settees made in a specific country, there are North America, United States, and Europe pieces for sale on 1stDibs. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for settees differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $4,742 and tops out at $54,000 while the average work can sell for $5,200.

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