Wood is one of the world’s most commonly sourced natural materials; and it has been used to build a wide variety as objects, as well as provide vital light and heat as a fuel source.
Working with wood is a great skill, and for centuries woodworkers have produced both small and large items, from delicate cutlery to large tables, intricately carved chairs, beds, shelves and much more. We still use wood to create a wide variety of beautiful and practical objects, and many methods still used today began hundreds of years ago in Ancient Egypt, China and Rome. If you want to know more about some ancient woodworking practices, see our brief history below.
Ancient Egyptians
There is plenty of evidence available that suggest the Ancient Egyptians were one of the first civilizations to use advanced woodworking techniques, as depicted in many ancient drawings which have been discovered from this period. Preserved wooden furniture has also been found, including chairs, beds and stools, as well as the plainer inner coffins found within tombs.
Egyptians tools were made from copper, and then bronze, and included items such as axes, chisels and pull saws. Wooden furniture was held together using pegs, or lashings made from leather or cord, before animal glue was discovered during the New Kingdom period (around 1570 BC). The Egyptians also invented the practice of using veneers and varnishes to finish off their woodwork and give a protective glossy sheen.
Ancient Rome
Wood was the predominant material used by the Romans for almost everything; including their buildings, utensils, transportation, and tools. The most common types of wood used by the Romans were maple, ash and olivewood, and a citrus scented wood from Africa called thyine. They were also one of the first people to carve a lot of decorative wood, with common motifs including animals and mythical designs.
Early China
The pioneers of Chinese woodwork are said to be husband and wife Lu Ban and Lady Yun, who lived during the ‘Spring and Autumn period’ between 722BC and 481 BC. Lu Ban’s book, ‘The Manuscripts of Lu Ban’, detailed the correct ways to measure furniture, flowerpots, alters and more. The book is considered the foundation of Chinese woodworking, and also explains the iconic Chinese method of joining furniture without using nails or glue.
Wood is an important material still used in many buildings today; both as furniture and for the structural beams of the building itself, so the last thing you want is a case of woodworm. If you’re in need of professional woodworm services in Yorkshire, call North Yorkshire Remedials. Our expert team can restore any affected areas, and prevent infestations from spreading any further, so give us a call today or visit our website to learn more.