Today, wicker furniture is known for its simple, rustic beauty, and its use in outdoor patios and living rooms. The appeal of wicker furniture is almost ingrained in human history, as the first recorded use of wicker furniture dates back to 3000 B.C. Ancient Egyptians and their pharaohs enjoyed having wicker furniture in their homes, and wicker was used for a variety of furniture items, including baskets and tables. Wicker eventually made its way into ancient Rome, as evidenced by a wicker basket found in the ruins of Pompeii. Europeans took influence from Rome and made wicker furniture a trend in Europe during the 16th – 19th centuries, particularly in the Victorian Era. Wicker was considered affordable, clean, and aesthetically pleasing. It could also be colored or shaped into intricate decorative designs. 

When settlers from Europe came to America, many of them brought their affinity for wicker furniture with them. However, the art of making wicker furniture was still relatively underdeveloped when Cyrus Wakefield, the pioneer of American wicker furniture, opened his business in the 1800s. Wakefield observed large shipments of rattan being used as cushioning for cargo at the Boston docks. He saw potential in the material and built a business model around designing and manufacturing high quality wicker furniture made out of rattan. Wakefield’s company soon became the leading provider of wicker furniture in America for years to come.

As wicker furniture has made its way into the modern age, it has adapted to customers’ changing needs. The aesthetics of the designs weaved into the furniture are no longer limited to Victorian styles, and the materials the wicker furniture is made from can be natural or synthetic. Synthetic wicker furniture tends to be stronger and more resistant to nature and the elements. This makes it more suitable for outdoor use. 

Though centuries have passed, the appeal of wicker furniture has stayed the same. Whether you use it indoors or outdoors, wicker furniture can give any room an elegant, alluring ambience. You can see all the latest wicker furniture styles and products at reasonable prices by visiting Wicker Paradise. You can choose from sofas, chairs, dressers, nightstands, and weather-resistant outdoor furniture sets. You might find exactly what you need to give your home a cozy, vintage feel.