The revival of the humble washstand
With the recent surge in popularity of the modest washstand, Château Rustique decided to take a look into its history and the variety of styles it has of this unassuming piece of furniture.
History: The washstand was an established piece of bedroom furniture from the beginning of the 19th century until well into the 20th century. It was known by three names – the washstand, the wash hand stand, but also by the term ‘lavabo’, now translated as ‘sink’. However, it dates back to centuries before, with it being established as more of a basin frame in the 17th century, where it was a static object with a hole for a basin to stand in. At the end of the 18th century it became essentially more multi-functional, with drawers below the basin.
By the time the 19th century had arrived, washstands rose in popularity as the ideals of personal cleanliness leapt to the fore. Now it was more intricate than basic, coming in the form of a table with holes for the basin, but with a shelf for the jugs once they had been used. There was also space for soap dishes and could be for one or two people.
In the first quarter of the 20th century, the wooden top of the washstand was replaced by marble with no hole, as the basin was placed upon the marble slab. There was a splashback which was usually tiled or in marble, at varying heights, and some with small shelves for accoutrements.
Three Styles: Château Rustique has three styles of washstand, each grabbing our imagination for different reasons. The small Early Edwardian black marbled stand with a cupboard underneath and two small shelves on the splashback; the larger red marble washstand, for two people; and the Victorian static washstand – a current work in progress.
Why popular today?: These pieces of furniture have become so popular today as they are incredibly versatile. They could as easily be put into a bathroom instead of modern units, with a sink plumbed in. The marble stands would be superb as a hall table, kitchen work surface or dining room sideboard. And they would all remain a talking piece as the original, humble washstand.
For more information, visit chateaurustique.co.uk.
