Introduction
The love chair, also known as the “siège d’amour” in French, was an infamous piece of furniture designed to cater to the copulatory tastes of the British King Edward VII while he visited the most luxurious brothel in Victorian Paris, Le Chabanais. Created by the French furniture manufacturer Soubrier, this scandalous chair allowed the king to engage in acts with two women simultaneously.
King Edward VII’s Reputation
King Edward VII, known for his numerous affairs with aristocrats, prostitutes, actresses and cancan dancers, was a regular visitor to Le Chabanais. His father, upon learning of his son’s licentious behavior, described him as “depraved”. To accommodate the king’s desires, the love chair was specially designed and installed in the brothel.
Design of the Love Chair
The chair’s unique design featured a chaise lounge-like structure with a bassinet-style seat and stirrups, resembling a gynecological exam table. This configuration allowed King Edward VII, who had gained considerable weight later in life, to engage in activities without his large belly interfering. The chair’s footrests and thrusting grips provided support and stability for the participants.
Versions of the Love Chair
At least three versions of the love chair are known to exist. The original chair is owned by the Soubrier family, while replicas can be found in the Machines Museum in Prague and at an antique furniture store in New Orleans, which offered one for sale in February 2020 for $68,000.
Historical Significance
The love chair’s design and purpose have sparked curiosity and debate among historians and the public alike. While some view it as a symbol of the king’s hedonistic lifestyle, others consider it a fascinating piece of history that sheds light on the practices and attitudes of the Victorian era.
Controversy and Curiosity
Regardless of one’s perspective, the love chair remains an intriguing and controversial artifact that continues to captivate and perplex those who encounter it. Its existence serves as a reminder of the complex and often scandalous lives of the British monarchy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Conclusion
The love chair, a scandalous piece of furniture from the Victorian era, continues to captivate and perplex those who encounter it. Its unique design and purpose shed light on the licentious behavior of King Edward VII and the attitudes towards during that time period. While some view the chair as a symbol of the king’s hedonistic lifestyle, others consider it a fascinating historical artifact that offers a glimpse into the complex and often scandalous lives of the British monarchy. Regardless of one’s perspective, the love chair remains an intriguing and controversial piece that continues to spark curiosity and debate among historians and the public alike.
FAQs
What was the purpose of the love chair?
The lovechair was designed to allow King Edward VII to engage in acts with two women simultaneously while visiting the brothel Le Chabanais in Paris.
What was King Edward VII’s reputation?
King Edward VII was known for his numerous affairs with aristocrats, prostitutes, actresses, and cancan dancers. His father described him as “depraved” upon learning of his son’s licentious behavior.
How does the love chair’s design accommodate King Edward VII?
The chair’s chaise lounge-like structure with a bassinet-style seat and stirrups allowed King Edward VII, who had gained considerable weight later in life, to engage in activities without his large belly interfering.
What is the significance of the love chair in history?
The love chair’s design and purpose have sparked curiosity and debate among historians and the public. It serves as a fascinating piece of history that sheds light on the practices and attitudes of the Victorian era.
Why is the love chair considered controversial?
The lovechair remains an intriguing and controversial artifact due to its scandalous design and purpose, serving as a reminder of the complex and often scandalous lives of the British monarchy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
