Beautiful Austro Hungarian Shell Shaped Sofa

A beautiful Austro-Hungarian clamshell two-seater sofa of elegant, compact proportions, retaining elements of its original upholstery and sensitively enhanced with later additions. The distinctive scalloped back and sweeping arms are upholstered in rich red velvet, finished with decorative gold braiding and tasselled fringe, giving the piece a strong sculptural presence. The seat and back panels are upholstered in a striking printed velvet, complemented by contrasting velvet sections, creating a layered and highly decorative finish. The combination of original fabric with later, high-quality upholstery gives the sofa depth, warmth and visual richness, while remaining true to its historic character. The size is particularly pleasing, making this an ideal piece for a boudoir, bedroom, dressing room or intimate sitting area. It is a lovely, small-scale sofa that offers visual impact without overwhelming a space. During reupholstery, a dated newspaper was discovered within the upholstery, providing a fascinating glimpse into the sofa’s past and supporting its early continental origins. This is offered as an anecdotal detail rather than formal documentation, but adds a charming layer of narrative and authenticity. Upholstery includes: GP & J Baker velvet and Mulberry printed velvet. Condition: Good decorative condition overall. The sofa is structurally sound and sits well. There is wear to areas of the original fabric consistent with age, which adds to the character of the piece. Later velvet and decorative trim elements are in good order, and the sofa presents attractively overall.