Description

Early C19th Regency period mahogany scroll-end double-ended sofa of classically inspired design .
Elegant and well-carved mahogany-framed sofa inspired by Grecian design from antiquity. The revival and re-visiting of the classical civilisations during the early C19th was popularised and made highly fashionable by the drawings and designs by the likes of Thomas Hope and Charles Heathcote-Tatham inspired by the sights and architecture re-discovered on "The Grand Tour" of continental Europe.
The centre of the shapely back rail with a large skilfully-carved scallop shell , the symbolism alluding to Venus the goddess of love , borne from the sea on a shell (as depicted in Botticelli's "Birth of Venus" ) and long celebrated in ancient classical mythology.
The frame with carved classical honeysuckle and anthemion detail . The dramatically shaped scroll arms taking their form and inspiration from the classical lyre , with applied paterae terminals . Carved oval classically-referenced stylised sunflower patera on a central tablet to the front of the frame and similarly repeated above the legs. The unusual lyre-shaped supports with carved detail, carved with motifs to the front , repeated in plain silhouette form to the rear . The base of all the feet with recessed 'ball' type castors for ease of movement.
The whole of the frame with carved channeling detail.
Rich consistent colour and patina to the quality mahogany.
Has been recently traditionally re-upholstered in a quality sympathetic Regency design striped and subtle floral patterned detail fabric , in excellent ready-to-use condition. The seat with a fitted loose squab cushion and tailored twin roll-end cushions all with piped edges . The borders finished with matching braid detail .
The stylish frame in strong, sturdy condition with no loose joints , damage or repairs.
H (full) 39"
H (seat) 17"
W 80"
D 25"
Possibly American, Philadelphia c. 1820
Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .
Whether buying for pleasure , decoration or investment, we welcome you to our web-site or premises .
Past projects have included advising clients on forming and disposing of collections , furnishing period properties , hotel and commercial projects , also a shoot-room and lodge .
All goods are available to view and owned by M.Lees&Sons .
If visiting, a telephone call prior is advisable as due to the demands of the business the show-room does not have regular hours . Please feel free to contact us if we can be of assistance .
www.leesantiquesworcester.com.
Tel. 01905 26620 / 07860826218
Located in the centre of Worcester in the shadow of the Cathedral with easy parking nearby. Exit Junction 7 M5 and follow the signs for Worcester Porcelain Museum . Our premises are located 100 metres from the Museum and 50 metres from Pay&Display car-park in nearby King St.
Internal Ref: ML 185