Codex Amiatinus Part 2: The Folding Bench

Codex Amiatinus: Part 2
[Be sure to check out the previous post in this project for the folding table!]

After completing the 6th century folding table, my attention was enraptured by this bench. Among the biggest reasons for our group's recent focus on camp gear is lack of period seating. Thus, my mission was clear!


Like the table, one of the stipulations on this build was that it be practical for our needs. As such, it was made a bit narrower than the image shows for ease of transport. Additionally, it had to break down in some way. So I set the hinges up essentially the same way as the table, the hollowed out a slot in the board to be used as the cross member. Two pegs glue into each set of legs allow you do drop the board in place when setting the bench up; the pegs ensure the board fits tightly and stays securely in place, holding the legs open.

Although the image shows two cross members, I decided to only do one in the interest of simplicity. These are sometimes called "writing benches" and were often made that way even into the 20th century, to make room for your legs when you're sitting for a long time. Other illuminations show these as well-- even one that is a 10-11th century copy of the source image.

I used the same red as the table as well as an ochre yellow for the freehand leaf design. I did my best to mimic the illumination, but this is a very different kind of "miniature" than those I usually work with!

Overall I'm happy with it, and I think it will serve our camp well! Now, about that footrest...