Chair

The chair comes from a private apartment of Janina Szczerska (born on 22 October 1897 in Stryj, died on 10 July 1981 in Szczecin) – teacher and later director of the High School no. 1 in Szczecin, pioneer of Szczecin. This piece of furniture, together with other personal effects, was donated to the collection of the National Museum in Szczecin on the basis of a bequest made on 1 September 1976. Chairs belong to the oldest pieces of furniture, even though in ancient Greece and Rome they were reserved exclusively for kings and rulers, who sat on chairs – thrones only during special ceremonies, which was supposed to emphasise their status and dignity. From the throne rooms, chairs – still considered a symbol of power – found their way to the Holy See and bishoprics as cathedrae, as well as to the universities. Over time, chairs started being increasingly used by monks who spent long hours reading and meditating on Scripture. Soon after, chairs became indispensable in monks' cells and refectories. It took until the 16th century, before chairs were considered basic furniture. The most significant changes to their production and appearance took place two centuries later. Wealthy townsfolk started adorning them with elaborate ornaments, thanks to which they could serve as interior decoration. It took until the late 19th century before they became widespread in schools, offices and workplaces.

Anna Lew-Machniak