Backgammon was first recorded as a ‘table game’ some 3000 BC in Persia. Later games tables and backgammon spread to Egypt, Mesopotamia, Rome and China in various guises. In medieval Europe the first ‘gaming tables’ appear in the…
Bizarre cures for the Black Death
The Plague or Black Death was first recorded in England in the mid 14th century. There was little contemporary medical understanding of the disease which resulted in many obscure and bizarre suggestions as remedies. The…
The evolution of the writing desk in England
Before William Caxton’s (1420-1492) Printing Press appeared in England, purpose-made furniture directly associated with writing was virtually unknown. Writing was undertaken on a raised surface, simple table or lap, and confined mainly to ecclesiastical subjects…
Hearst Castle, San Simeon, California, USA.
Hearst CastleWhile completing a furnishing project in southern California recently, I took time out to visit Hearst Castle. I had been working for a customer in Los Angeles on a project which was a loose…
A brief introduction to the evolution of the antique chair from early times to the mid 18th century.
EGYPT : The earliest recorded use of furniture dates back to at least the Early Dynastic period in Egypt Ca. 3500 BC. We know this from contemporary wall paintings. Beds/recliners seem to have pre-dated most…
