What is a drop arm sofa?

A drop arm sofa includes a hinged mechanism on one or both sides to lower the armrest. This allows the seating to function as an impromptu daybed. Such pieces are frequently found in nineteenth-century Victorian designs where adaptability in domestic spaces mattered.

How do I identify a revival style?

Revival pieces borrow decorative motifs, frame shapes, and proportions from earlier centuries like the Georgian or Queen Anne eras. They are usually dated by their construction methods and secondary timbers. Examining the joinery and interior materials helps distinguish an authentic nineteenth-century revival from a later reproduction.

What is a canape sofa?

A canape is a traditional French-style settee characterised by an exposed wooden frame, often carved and painted or gilded. They typically feature cane panels or fully upholstered backs. These pieces were designed for formal reception rooms and salons across the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Where were country house sofas used?

Country house sofas were large, deep-seated pieces built for comfort in substantial rural residences. They often utilised heavy upholstery and loose cushions. Maker workshops like Howard and Sons became renowned for producing these durable and luxurious lounging seats.