Historical information

This is a Victorian round cedar commode seat raised on a plinth base with fluted sides. The name ‘commode’ translates in French as ‘convenient’ or ‘suitable’ and could be applied to a dressing table with water jug and bowl for washing oneself and having a cupboard underneath in which to house the chamber pot. It could also refer to a small bedside chest of drawers.

In the days before indoor toilets and running water, it was common to have a chamber pot under or near the bed for use during the night or at any time for invalids. The commode seat was a decorative way of concealing the chamber pot by fitting it in a round hole under the lid with the height making it more convenient and suitable for people with limited mobility.

The chamber post was removed, emptied and cleaned daily.

Physical description

Victorian Round cedar commode seat, raised on plinth base with fluted sides. Topped with red, yellow and blue embroidered upholstery