Peacock chair
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The peacock chair is a chair made of woven rattan or bamboo with a flared back, originated in the Philippines.[1] It became popular in the United States and abroad during the 20th century, as a thronelike symbol of status, being featured in photographies with politicians, revolutionary leaders, actors and musicians.[2]
The peacock chair is one of several wicker chair designs to have originated from The Philippines and popularized in the US after the 1876's Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition.[3]
This design originated in The Philippines, as a chair produced by inmates of the Bilibid prison in the early 20th century. During the American colonial period, the prison was espoused by colonizers as a 'benevolent' institution, where prisoners in rehabilitation programs made articles like furniture, silverware and baskets.[4] The products were exposed at the prison workshop and sold to tourists.
One of the first peacock chair photos to popularize the model was featured in the May 16–17, 1914, edition of the El Paso Herald, showing a female inmate from the Philippines seated with her baby.[5]
Design
The chair has an hourglass shaped base, lifted arms and a woven flared back resembling a peacock's tail.[6] The design of the chair is often associated with mid-century modern furniture, known for its bold and elegant silhouette. Its striking appearance, with the intricately woven back and open frame, evokes the grace and grandeur of a peacock's plumage, making it a symbol of luxury and artistic flair. The chair has gained recognition in pop culture, frequently appearing in various artistic and fashion contexts.[7]