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Biltmore Collection’s Trellis Wicker Ottoman
Has it ever come to your attention just how beautiful chairs with woven seats are? These seats come with the most intricate patterns and complex lace type so that they are not just beautiful, they are also durable enough to sit an adult. Or you might have noticed the rocking chair in your grandma’s porch – isn’t it the most interesting woven piece?
There are furniture caning projects but what’s more interesting is the history of wicker itself. Wickerwork has been mentioned in many ancient societies, hence, one can deduce that it is as old as some of the primitive societies. Potawatomi Indians have this mythical creature – an old lady – who lives on the moon and knows how to weave baskets.
Weaving is very much a part of many cultures all over the world. These days, modern wicker furniture pieces are just an interesting extension of the basket weaving techniques back in the day.
The earliest evidence of wicker furniture production was during the Sumerian civilization, about 4000 B.C. Sumerians depended on wicker for their transportation, shelter, floors, clothing, utensils, and furnishings.
Ancient Romans were also found to have owned pieces of wicker furniture. It was the Egyptians, though, who had a more sophisticated design for their wicker pieces.
What’s great about the modern pieces today is that they come with the advantage of technology. Machinery and tools also greatly reduced the labor plus they it upped the efficiency of wicker making. The weaving techniques remain the same, though, which is an advantage.
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American Wicker
One of the earliest pieces of wicker furniture that were found in America is a baby’s cradle. This was believed to have been brought by the Pilgrims. Baskets and other wickerwork were eventually made in colonial America. Its use for other furniture and decoration was yet to be discovered during that time, though.
Chinese trade greatly influenced American wicker industry. Peacock chairs and Chinese fantail were brought by traders. Since these were novelty items, the English and the Americans were enamored by the said pieces.
Rattan was eventually imported to England where the shiny skin was stripped off as the reeds were used in weaving seats and backs for chairs.
Victorian Wicker
Between 1860 and 1880, Wicker was introduced in the creation of lovely Victorian furniture. At first, the move was greatly experimental both in production and technology used. It was Cyrus Wakefield who took the red weed that was being thrown and used it in creating a new material.
Wicker Today
If you’re thinking of dressing up your patio, then what better way is there than wicker furniture?
Wicker furniture offers a natural, rustic appearance which is most suitable for outdoor pieces. It is also a wonderful choice for people who would want a greener piece for their home.
Wicker is also durable and safe to use. The quality of the wood makes it one of the most durable materials for outdoor use. It can also be woven easily with the application of a small amount of heat.
Wicker is also easy to maintain. It may not be weather resistant but with diligence in cleaning and keeping it away from the rays of the harsh sun, you can have this furniture piece for a long time. also, make sure that you cover it with a tarp when it is raining so that the piece remains dry, beautiful and durable.
Intensive cleaning involves a damp sponge – that’s as far as you could go. Just do this weekly so that the wicker furniture piece will retain its brilliance. Be sure to dry it out prior to placing back the upholstery as well as the cushions.
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