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It will perhaps come as no surprise that the word ‘chair’ has its origins in Latin (cathedra),
and indeed the Greek language (Kathedra). And that’s before we consider the ancient
Egyptians’ role in all this! As for a chair as an object in itself, and in its simplest form, it can
be described as something (anything) that can be sat upon. In the neolithic age, 4300 to
2000BC, a stone slab did the job. But this description is to overly simplify the vast, almost
infinite, range of forms that readily perform this basic functional requirement. From thrones
to deckchairs, and everything in between, if it can be sat on, then it’s a chair.
But there is of course far more to it than that. If we fulfill the most basic of requirements for a
seat then what need is there for all the variants in terms of size, shape, style, comfort,
decoration, materials, quality, etc, etc? This suggests that there is clearly a connection, or
perhaps even more significantly, a ‘relationship’, between the object and the person or
persons for whom the chair is intended for use.
Is it to be purely functional, or is the chair a status symbol denoting position in society which,
at the extreme, is the monarchical throne. In ancient Egypt pharaohs used chairs simply to
physically elevate themselves above those they ruled over (this theme has been consistent
throughout the ages of man). In ecclesiastical circles, a bishop’s repose is indeed termed a
‘Cathedra’. Alternatively, a chair might represent art or sculpture, or be a statement of
cultural significance.
When in the presence of chairs which clearly have some age, I’ve often caught myself
drifting off into a world of wondering who would have sat on the chair and when, where it
was, what the conversation was and what that chair might have ‘overheard’ - yes, wondering
but also wandering, back through time into the world of our forebears.
Rated Excellent
based on our reviews
The whole week was so good
The whole week was so good - except for my appalling lack of accuracy over banging in
tacks; I was surprised that I was so cross that I couldn't be better at it! Your teaching skills are second to none and I am so glad that Alison suggested that I should come to you to
reupholster my seats
Joanna Sep 23
I so enjoyed the course
I so enjoyed the course - and we had fun as well as learning from the very best in the business - Richard is a star…..
Lou Jan 24
Thank you so much for another great week.
Thank you so much for another great week. It was very interesting reflecting on Cornelius V. Smith and his mates working on the chair back in the day. Your wisdom and patience with us all is much appreciated! I look forward to the next course.
Louise Jul 24
Thank you both for your support, patience
Can I take this opportunity to thank you both for your support, patience, excellent guidance and outstanding tuition throughout the 3 years - I really cannot believe it has come to an end now! The rest is continued practice to improve!
Sue Jul 24
The Tresithick Pathway
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Here at Tresithick Upholstery Training, we get asked all the time if our courses can be purchased as a gift? Yes they can!
We have gift vouchers available for either the full course fees, or in denominations of £50 and £100 for a loved one to put towards their next course. Contact us today for more information.
The Barn Workshop
Trevilvas Farmhouse
Grampound
Cornwall
TR2 4DE
07476 469510
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