Adjustable dental chair, 18th century

This early adjustable dental chair has upholstered seating. As a specialised piece of furniture it is representative of the emergence of the dentist as a separate profession. The quality of the chair also suggests that there was a wealthy clientele ready and willing to pay for dental services.

The first reclining chair was invented in 1832 by James Snell, a London dentist who was also a member of the Royal College of Surgeons.