Bench

A long rectangular bench with armrests and four legs but no back. The legs perpendicular to the axis of the bench are tied by a cross bracing. The seating area is made of wooden planks on which would be laid a mattress, padded with straw then later on with cotton or wool. It replaced its predecessor, the traditional stone or earth-packed bench running along the dwelling wall or in the main room of the house. It would be found indoors, if the house was spacious enough or outdoors, in galleries or covered yards.