Furniture typically represents the style, function and thought of the person. Egyptian style furniture is no different. Invoking the visions of the Pharaohs and of ancient Egypt replica’s of ancient pieces have continued to find their ways into modern decorative themes. The Egyptians were among the first cultures to have given us some insight into their use of furniture because so many pictures have been found in the tombs which have been uncovered. The furniture was made mostly from wood, and the passing years have turned them into dust. However, some pieces manages to survive the time and gave us a better idea of the furniture and its specific use.

The Egyptians combined practicality and their artistic nature in their furniture design. The had a great deal of respect for nature and it showed through their use of design. One of the first and most basic items of Egyptian style furniture was the simple stool. It seems to have been the staple item in every Egyptian home. Covered with pictures of animals, and its feet were often carved into animals feet or claws. Folding stools were common. They were most likely used by armies while in the field, but soon found their way into the homes.

Chairs are thought to have evolved from the earlier and most basic stool by a slow process of adding ever larger backrests. A chair once sat in by an Egyptian pharaoh now sits in the British Museum. Made of cedar imported, most likely from Lebanon and inlaid in ivory in the shape of Lotus blossoms in the backrest. The legs end in the curved claws of a lion. Beds were made from wooden slats and often reeds. Sometimes they had the luxury of a ‘mattress’ made out of wool and linens for sheets.

The Egyptian furniture that you see today are made more for decoration rather then the truly functional furniture they originally made. The true Egyptian pieces were very impressive, they believed in melding of the beautiful and aesthetic with the practical. Today’s pieces just don’t show the same reflection or portrayal of what they used to be.