Question 1

How can I tell if my antique sofa is really an antique?

Accepted Answer

When buying an antique sofa, you want to make sure that what you're buying is the real deal and not just a reproduction made to look like an authentic one. A reproduction of an antique may be finely crafted but should still show visible signs of being hand-casted. Examine the following details carefully. Look for telltale signs of worn pieces. Pieces that have been manufactured recently will show smoother, shinier surfaces. Examine the piece for dovetailing. Once you spot a dovetailing, assess if they were perfectly cut and shaped. An antique sofa has irregularly-shaped joints that reveal work done by hand.

Question 2

What were sofas called in the 1800s?

Accepted Answer

Chesterfield was the term used to describe a piece of sofas in the 1800s. The Chesterfield is one of the most regarded pieces back in the day. This classic style has been widely used in stately homes around the old British Empire. The history of Chesterfield sofas dates back to many centuries ago with its distinctive array of features including rolled arms and deep buttoned upholstery design. Studies claim that the real origins of the Chesterfield sofa started in the 1800s through Earl of Chesterfield, Lord Phillip Stanhope. For old house enthusiasts,  the historic charm of Chesterfield soda was believed to be only available for the upper classes and would bring a touch of boudoir to many Victorian homes, establishments, and country mansions alike. During these times, each Chesterfield sofa was meticulously hand-casted without the help of modern-day machineries. Today, Chesterfield is described as a sofa where its features have certainly evolved over time. There are a great selection of designs, materials, and colour options including leathers and fine upholstery material.

Question 3

Where can I find a cheap vintage sofa?

Accepted Answer

Originally based in London, we have an extensive collection of vintage settees and antique sofas, offering traditional and classic styles. Choose from our hotbed of great vintage finds. Love Antiques is one of England’s most diverse antique destinations with a price range that suits your buffet and style. Whether you’re remodelling your home or looking to find a one-of-a-kind addition to your antique collections, we are ready to meet your most unique needs. For over 25 years, we’ve strived to provide the best collection of antique goods and treasure finds in London. We have a range of characterful and hard-to-find pieces at reasonable prices. We are filled to the brim with items that are second to none. Discounts are offered throughout the year. If you are interested to buy a unique piece of vintage settee or antique vintage sofa, Love Antiques offers durable, high quality, and one-of-a-kind pieces and accessories at an affordable price. Visit our online store for a more convenient way of shopping and browse a great diversity of accessories, lounge chairs, lamps, chaises, and vintage settee for sale. You can rely on us to deliver your items with maximum protection from moving, transport, to storage. Our team of experts are here to help you find the best antique furniture that meets your style. So nourish the shopper in you and visit Love Antiques for a great shopping experience. We’re looking forward to meeting you!

Question 4

What is the difference between an antique sofa and a settee?

Accepted Answer

Sofa is a Turkish word and is originally derived from the Arabic word “soffa” which means “wool” and was sometimes spelt as “soffah”. The original definition of sofa is “a part of the floor, raised a foot or two, covered with rich carpets and cushions and used for sitting upon.” Oxford-English Dictionary defines the word sofa as “a long comfortable seat with a back and arms, for two or more people to sit on”. In the Oxford English Dictionary, settee is defined as a “fanciful variation of a settle”, which is historically crafted from Oak from the Middle Ages. Settees has a slim feature and boasts a more elegant profile than sofas. Although it is somehow similar to a sofa, settees have high, straight backs, and have exposed wooden legs. You can find an antique settee with full upholstery, seat cushions, and can be seated by two people. In England, sofa is a popular term used by the English people, while settee is an outdated term and couch is rarely used. Another noticeable difference between the two is their length. Both a sofa and settee can seat two to three people but sofas are typically longer. Though the differences between a settee and sofas are minimal, whichever you decide to purchase for your living area or bedroom mainly depends on the style you want to achieve.

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