The word Cane Furniture which is sometimes also called rattan cane to differentiate it from other products. It is also a material that is produced from the rattan palm plant. When the palm plant is processed it is split into two parts: the core reed (rattan) and the thin interior (cane).
Cane furniture is mostly used in gardens & patios as outdoor furniture as it has the immense ability to resist all types of climatic changes. It is less affected by climatic changes however it should be placed away from direct heat & sunlight as it might become brittle. It is also water-resistant & rustproof in nature. The furniture is tensile and durable. It is therefore considered to be ideal for both indoor and outdoor.
The cane furniture in which a mesh of split canes is stretched over parts of the framework, principally on the backs and seats of chairs. It was made in India as early as the 2nd century AD and was also known in China. Earlier Cane was imported into Europe by the East India Company and it became fashionable in England and the Netherlands toward the end of the 17th century.
It is particularly associated with the high-backed chairs with ornately carved front stretchers made at the time of the English Restoration. In France, the cane work was popular for less fancy furniture during the period of Regence. The cane furniture was still used in the Louis XV ( King of France )period. It gradually returned to favor in early 19th-century England with the use of furniture in the Chinese taste.
Here are some common features and characteristics of furniture:
- Material: Cane furniture is made from the outer bark of the rattan plant. Rattan is a vine-like palm that grows in tropical regions. The cane used for furniture is the processed and treated outer layer of rattan.
- Lightweight: Cane is lightweight, making it easy to move and rearrange furniture pieces.
- Durability: Despite its lightweight nature, cane furniture is durable and can withstand regular use. The material is known for its strength and resilience, especially when properly treated and cared for.
- Flexibility: Cane is a flexible material, allowing for intricate designs and patterns. This flexibility is often used to create unique and aesthetically pleasing furniture pieces.
- Breathability: Cane furniture has a natural breathability, which can be beneficial in warm climates. This feature helps prevent the furniture from feeling overly hot or sticky.
- Versatility: Cane can be woven into various patterns, allowing for a wide range of designs. It can be used for different types of furniture, including chairs, sofas, tables, and even bed frames.
- Eco-friendly: Cane is a renewable resource, and its harvesting doesn’t usually harm the environment. This makes cane furniture a more sustainable option compared to some other materials.
- Indoor and Outdoor Use: While most cane furniture is designed for indoor use, there are also varieties that are suitable for outdoor applications. Outdoor cane furniture is typically treated to withstand the elements.
- Comfort: Furniture often features a level of comfort, especially when cushions or padding are added. The natural flexibility of cane can contribute to a comfortable sitting experience.
- Classic and Timeless: Furniture has a classic and timeless aesthetic that can complement various interior design styles, from traditional to contemporary.
- Low Maintenance: Furniture is generally easy to maintain. Regular dusting and occasional cleaning are usually sufficient to keep it looking good.