The vanity table, also known as a dresser, chest of drawers, poudreuse, boudoir, or lowboy, has had as many names as it has seen its history. Although we don't always realize it, these tables have a rich and vibrant history, one that is more intimately linked to our psyches than we might imagine.
Vanity tables are a visual record of humanity's changing ideas about style, beauty, and social norms. They not only reflect historical trends in design and art, but also offer insight into aspects of the past, such as social class, beauty standards, and femininity.
Origins
When we think of a vanity table, we probably imagine a large vanity with large mirrors, filled with beauty products, accompanied by a comfortable chair and perfect lighting. However, vanity tables have much more humble origins.
The root of the word "vanity" comes from the Latin vanus , meaning "vain and useless," and it did not acquire connotations of narcissism until the 14th century. The idea and term of the dressing table did not emerge until the late 18th century. In American English, the terms "dressing table" and "vanity" became interchangeable, while in Australia they are called "duchesses."
Although modern vanity tables did not appear until the late 18th century, designated spaces for applying makeup and grooming have existed since the ancient Egyptians, who used small jars and containers for their cosmetics, many of which were buried with them, leaving early examples of cosmetic boxes.
Poudreuse and Lowboys
In the 17th century, the use of vanity tables became an activity for aristocrats and nobles, and the design of these tables evolved to reflect that formality. This change coincided with a trend in which both wealthy men and women in Europe began to spend more time on their hair, makeup, and clothing, thus necessitating larger containers for their products.
In England, these tables were known as lowboys , and in France as poudreuses , the latter being a small table for storing perfumes and cosmetics. Early models included a folding lid, a cistern, and a drawer with a washbasin.
Madame de Pompadour, mistress of Louis XIV, is known for popularizing dressing tables throughout Europe. As one of the greatest influencers of the 17th century, she commissioned Jean-François Oeben to create a table that would allow her to entertain guests and write letters during the lengthy dressing process. Oeben and other French artisans continued to create these hybrid dressing table/desk tables, some of which are the finest examples of furniture in the world.
The Modern Vanity Table
In the 19th century, vanity tables grew in size and began to include small mirrors and stools. The Art Deco period at the beginning of the 20th century developed the modern concept of the vanity table, transforming it into a distinctively feminine piece of furniture.
Jean Harlow's boudoir in the 1933 film "Dinner at Eight" helped create the archetype of the modern vanity, with excellent lighting and a comfortable chair. Although the Great Depression and World War II diminished their popularity, vanity tables became popular again in the mid- to late 20th century with the resurgence of consumerism and capitalism in the American economy.
Thanks to their incredible craftsmanship, the elegance of vanity tables, whether antique or contemporary, is surpassed only by their durability. Aside from being a practical item, they add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any room, regardless of its design.
