Hand Caned Heaven

Hand Caned Bergere Bench (left), Hand Caned Bergere Chair (right)

Handcrafting furniture since 1969, at The Odd Chair Company, our family-run team are proud to be the makers of the first commercially available caned furniture in the UK since the 1930s. Skilfully hand caned by the esteemed Brian Crossley MBE, a Yeoman of the Worshipful Company of Basketmakers with over 60 years of experience.

With its intricate craftsmanship and timeless appeal, hand caned furniture has a rich history that traces back centuries. The art of hand caning is believed to have originated in South East Asia, with the earliest examples dating back to the 2nd Century AD.

Hand caned furniture made its way to Europe during the 17th Century via traders and explorers, and in England, became synonymous during the Restoration period under Charles II.

Today, hand caned furniture resurges as consumers seek sustainable and artisanal products. Caning refers to the process of weaving rattan or cane into a mesh that is used to create seats, backs, or other parts of a piece of furniture.

Designed to commemorate our founder, Sue Cook, our caned Bergere Chair was modelled directly from the Bergere Bench sourced over 25 years ago with all of the original Georgian period proportions and details.

All the hand-caned pieces in the collection, including the beloved Bergere Bench and Bergere Chair, can be custom-made to your size requirements and are available in any wood finish, with popular choices being solid oak, walnut, and mahogany. We have over 30 wood finishes available to choose from on our website. 

With its storied past and timeless elegance, hand caned furniture continues to captivate and inspire. From it’s South East Asian Origins to it’s modern-day revival, the art of hand caning remains a cherished tradition, and here at The Odd Chair Company we are proud to be honouring this extraordinary craft.