People have antique Monks Benches for a vast array of reasons. Some are family heirlooms filled with memories while others are cherished antiques. The Monks Bench was the earliest form of seating. We most often see this type of bench in older houses. Before the 1840s the two main types of  Monks Bench were wood with a very simple design or elaborately carved pieces.

During the next decade we can see the introduction of carved legs, floral motifs, and serpentine shaped seats. In America and England Victorian Monks Benchs featured seated with fabric cushions and elaborate carvings.

Monks Benchs initially had four legs just like other Benchs and back which featured delicate carvings. The Monks bench that many of us are familiar with today sees its first introduction during the 1700s. Many of the first Monks benches also included a storage area under the seat which was a convenient place in which to store items.

The seat cushion was often embellished with fine needlepoint or embroidery. We see that Monks benches are influcenced by the Victorian style up into the 1920s. The Monks benches that were produced during this time most often have lovely feet

and delicate turned legs. Monks benches were made by a carpenter using specifications provided by the Monk. There are three main types of Monks benches that you can locate. The rectangular Monks bench is the most common.

These types are not adjustable and come in a standard height. A Monks Bench can be adjusted to various heights using circular knobs. Monks benches will usually also feature a padded seat. The most unusually type of Monks bench is the Monks chair. These were not the standard seating that came when you became a monk and many monks thought them to be more comfortable than sitting on a cold floor which would also get their habits dirty. Nothing worse than a dirty habit!