The History of Director’s Chairs

The director’s chair has its roots in ancient Egyptian stools and the classic Roman curule, which was reserved for dignitaries. The modern version of the director’s chair was first created by Gold Medal Camp Furniture, a Wisconsin-based company that introduced it at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. It was part of a larger movement dedicated to returning to nature through activities like camping. Over time, the chair moved from campgrounds into the domestic space, first appearing on patios and in backyards before moving inside the home and appearing in living rooms and even bedrooms. The chair first popped up on Hollywood sets during the silent film era and has remained an iconic (and practical!) part of movie and TV sets ever since.