The history of faux bamboo furniture can be traced back to the 19th century, when bamboo became popular in Europe as an exotic and decorative material. One of the earliest examples of faux bamboo furniture was a chair designed by the English designer Thomas Chippendale in the 18th century. Chippendale's chair featured carved wooden legs that imitated the look of bamboo.
In the 19th century, faux bamboo furniture became especially popular in the United States. American furniture makers such as R.J. Horner, John Henry Belter, and Kimbel and Cabus produced a wide range of furniture that imitated the look of bamboo, including chairs, tables, and cabinets.