1911 Encyclopædia Britannica/Upholsterer

UPHOLSTERER, in modern usage, a tradesman who supplies coverings, cushions, padding and stuffing for chairs, sofas or beds, or who repairs the same, and more generally one who also provides carpets, curtains and household furniture. The word first appeared as “upholder,” then as “upholdster” or “upholster,” and finally with repetition of -er, as in “poulterer,” “upholsterer.” The first meaning seems to have been a broker or dealer in small wares. Probably the name was given to a broker who sold such goods by auction, holding them up to public view as is the manner of auction-rooms.