How do I identify a Victorian sofa?

Victorian sofas generally exhibit darker hardwood frames, such as walnut or rosewood, accompanied by heavier carved details and sprung upholstery. Many examples incorporate button-backed velvet or serpentine lines reflecting the revival styles popular during the nineteenth century.

Are these sofas suitable for daily use?

Many antique velvet sofas are robust enough for everyday seating, particularly those with strong mahogany or walnut frames and modern internal restoration. Checking whether the piece retains its original sprung base or has been re-webbed helps determine its practical comfort.

How do I care for antique velvet?

Antique velvet requires gentle brushing with the grain to maintain the pile and prevent crushing over time. Professional dry cleaning or specialist upholstery care is recommended for treating spots without damaging the delicate pile or underlying timber.