‘This chair shall be my state’

Henry IV, Part I (Act II, scene 4)

As head of the household, Shakespeare would have used the most impressive chair in New Place. The oak panel-back chair pictured here dates from the mid 1600s. It is a similar style to the type of armchair that was popular while Shakespeare lived at New Place. The legs, seat and arms are elegantly shaped, while the square back displays a circular pattern surrounded by delicate carvings of flowers and leaves. The shape and angle of the chair encouraged a rigid posture. The back is upright, at an almost 90 degree angle to the seat. This put the sitter in an alert and authoritative position. The arms add some comfort, sloping downwards before rising again towards the end. Armchairs might also be upholstered in wealthier households. They would follow a similar design to the chair seen here, but the back and seat would be covered in some sort of textile. This would make the chair more comfortable, not to mention luxurious. 

Seating in early modern England was hierarchical and symbolic. What you sat on, and where, revealed your position in the household. Shakespeare would have sat in a chair much like this at the head of the table to symbolise his authority. Important guests would have taken any other chairs that may be present. The mistress of the house may have sat upon a decorated stool, similar to the joint stool also featured in this exhibition. Cushions would be used to add a touch of comfort as well as decoration. Children or other members of the household might then be permitted to sit on simpler stools or wooden benches.