Which design feature indicates the farthingale chair was intended for women?

• A. It has armrests
• B. It includes a built-in footrest
• C. It uses a solid back
• D. It has no arms to accommodate hoop skirts and dresses

Answer: (D)

The design feature tested is how furniture adapts to the wearer’s clothing. A farthingale chair lacks armrests, creating space for a wide, hoop-supported gown to drape and spread around the chair. With armrests, the dress and hoop could press against and catch on the arms, making seating awkward and uncomfortable in heavy, structured garments. The absence of arms directly signals this chair was meant to accommodate the wide silhouettes of women’s dress from the period, whereas other features like a solid back or a built-in footrest don’t address that clothing constraint as clearly.