The design and development of furniture over the centuries had been steady and predictable. It was largely influenced by the availability of materials, and the changing fashions of the eras. Armoires were designed for suits of armour, but later became wardrobes for clothing. Chairs lost their arms to accommodate wide skirts, and became upholstered and comfortable to fit in with the drawing rooms of fashionable ladies.
To quote William Cowper: Necessity invented stools, convenience next suggested elbow-chairs, and luxury the accomplish’d Sofa last.
