Original Condition 19th-Century French Sofa or Chaise - Lion Paw Feet, Restoration Piece

A rare totally original condition19th-century French painted Sofa/Chaise with hand carved lion paw feet and original upholstery, restoration project At a Glance - Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility • Origin France • Date: 19th century • Rare Find: Retains original condition throughout – painted frame and upholstery • Style: Neoclassical influence with elegant, restrained ornamentation • Material: Original painted finish with aged decorative gilded detailing; original upholstery and brass studwork • Design: Four outswept feet terminating with hand carved lion’s paw feet (sometime referred to as sled-shaped supports) • Configuration: Low, elegant sofa / chaise form with scroll arms and swept back profile • Condition Timeworn paint surface with authentic patina; upholstery requires restoration (structure remains sound) • Dimensions: H: 76cm (29.9") | W: 150cm (59.1") | D: 63cm (24.8") • Delivery is not included - please use the Request Delivery Quote feature located beside the ‘Add to Basket’ tab before completing your order • Desirability:   • Authentic patina: The original painted surface gives the piece warmth, depth, and historic charm   • Restoration potential: Structurally sound and ready for new upholstery - an excellent project for collectors or interior designers   • Decorative appeal: Strong decorative silhouette: sled supports and lion paw feet give sculptural presence without heaviness, typical of fine 19th-century French furniture           • Increasingly sought after: Pieces retaining their original finish and classical details appeal to collectors, decorators and antique enthusiasts Heritage, History & Craftsmanship A graceful and characterful 19th-century French sofa or chaise, retaining its original painted frame with softly timeworn decorative detailing and traces of gilded ornament. The carving is refined and confident, and the piece sits on four distinctive outswept supports terminating in lion paw feet - a classic and highly decorative motif associated with Neoclassical French design, lending both strength and elegance to the silhouette. This is a rare survivor: the frame and upholstery remain in original condition, offering a compelling glimpse into the piece’s early life and honest domestic use. While the upholstery now requires restoration, the structure remains sound, making this an exceptional opportunity for a sympathetic reupholstery project that can be tailored to an interior scheme while preserving the authenticity of the original painted surface. Throughout the 19th century, French makers continued to reinterpret earlier Neoclassical and Empire influences - favouring elegant proportions, sculptural feet, and painted or lightly gilded finishes that introduced a softer, more decorative presence than darker timber furniture. Sofas and chaises of this type were designed as much for visual impact as comfort, forming focal points within drawing rooms and refined private spaces. A beautiful and evocative 19th-century French sofa or chaise, combining sculptural form, original paint, and classical detailing - a timeless piece awaiting sympathetic and careful restoration. Styling Suggestions • Reupholster in linen, ticking, striped cotton or a soft velvet to complement the original painted finish • Perfect as an end-of-bed piece in a bedroom or dressing room, where its silhouette and patina feel especially romantic • Use in a hallway or large landing as a sculptural conversation piece with practical seating • Pair with a gilt mirror or antique prints above to echo the frame’s aged gilded detailing • Works beautifully in calm, tonal schemes — stone, chalk, warm whites and muted greys allow the paint finish to sing • For contrast, upholster in a deep colour (olive, tobacco, ink or oxblood) to heighten the classical drama • Style with a single cushion and a draped textile rather than over-accessorising — let the form do the work • Complements both French country and more formal neoclassical interiors, as well as curated contemporary spaces • Ideal for designers seeking a genuine restoration piece with integrity, presence and authenticity • Consider pairing with antique brass lamps, marble-top surfaces, or painted commodes for a coherent scheme Explore Every Facet Our high-resolution photographs let you examine this piece in detail, exactly as you would in the showroom. These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. Study the timeworn painted surface, carved lion paw feet, sled-shaped supports, brass studwork and the honest wear to the original upholstery - details that reveal both its authenticity and its exciting restoration potential. Sustainable Style Thank you for considering this 19th-century French painted sofa or chaise - a choice that is both culturally and environmentally responsible … in every sense, the most sustainable item is the one that endures. This piece exemplifies the longevity of traditional craftsmanship and the value of restoration. Reupholstery allows a historic frame to be preserved and re-loved for modern living, honouring original materials and skilled making while reducing waste and avoiding new manufacture. Choosing antiques and restoration projects supports traditional trades and brings layered character, individuality and continuity to today’s interiors. Purchase with Confidence White’s Antiques carefully selects every item for authenticity, character, craftsmanship, and decorative presence - ensuring that each piece carries both aesthetic and historic value. Each item is described and photographed with care, ensuring complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. We are an established and successful business serving both trade and private collectors. You are warmly invited to visit our shop at 53 High Street, Arundel, and our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex, to experience our curated collections firsthand, explore the stories behind each antique, and appreciate these timeless treasures in person.