How do I care for leather upholstery?

Keep leather conditioned with appropriate balms to prevent drying and cracking over time. Avoid placing the settee in direct sunlight or near heat sources. Dust the buttoned crevices regularly with a soft brush to prevent grit accumulation in the tufts.

How do I distinguish walnut from mahogany frames?

Walnut typically displays a warmer, lighter brown tone with pronounced grain figuring and occasional dark streaks. Mahogany tends to be darker and denser with a reddish-brown hue. Examining uncovered wood on the underside or legs usually reveals the true timber character.

Can I reupholster an antique settee?

Many pieces survive with their original upholstery worn, making professional reupholstery a common path for restoration. Choose materials and buttoning styles appropriate to the nineteenth-century period. Retain as much of the internal webbing and traditional stuffing as possible to preserve the original sit.