Taboret
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A Taboret refers to two different pieces of furniture, a cabinet or a stool.
The more popular use refers to a small portable stand or cabinet, with drawers and shelves for storage. It is used as a method to bring organization to a work area. This name for a portable cabinet is common to artists.
As a stool, it refers to a short stool without a back or arms. The name is probably derived from their resemblance to a drum (Old French tabur).
[edit] A highly prized stool
It acquired a more specialized meaning in 17th century France at the court of Louis XIV in Versailles. Sitting in front of the royal family was a much coveted honor, and the taboret was the way to do it. The court taboret was an elaborate, upholstered stool with curved wooden legs and tassles, carried by a liveried and wigged servant. The duchess was automatically granted the honor of sitting in front of the queen. In fact, this stool became such a symbol of privilege that when Louis XIV's mother Anne the Regent granted taborets to two non-duchesses -- such a storm of protest was raised that she had to revoke them.
[edit] References
- Herman, Eleanor. Sex with Kings. New York: HarperCollins. 2004. ISBN 0-06-058543-9
