How do I care for antique upholstery?

Vacuum textile surfaces gently using a soft brush attachment to remove dust without pulling the fibres. Keep the timber framework nourished with appropriate furniture wax while protecting delicate fabrics from direct sunlight. Avoid placing these settees near heat sources that could dry out the wood or cause splitting in the antique frames.

Are these settees comfortable for daily use?

Most period and revival settees offer a firm sit due to traditional stuffing methods and dense internal webbing. They function well for reading and formal seating rather than lounging. Adding supportive cushions can improve comfort whilst maintaining the structural integrity of the historic frame.

How do I distinguish revival pieces from originals?

Examine the tool marks, timber ageing, and construction methods hidden beneath the frame or inside the seat rails. Revival pieces from the Victorian and Edwardian eras often utilise machine-assisted cuts alongside hand-finishing. Comparing the decorative carving style to documented pieces from specific reigns helps confirm whether a settee is eighteenth-century or a later interpretation.