Scalloped Loveseat
Antique 19th Century French Louis XVI Loveseats
Mohair, Upholstery, Giltwood
Recent Sales
20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Loveseats
Velvet, Cherry
2010s Loveseats
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Loveseats
Leather
20th Century Loveseats
Cotton
21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Mohair
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Leather
Mid-20th Century Austrian Art Deco Settees
Upholstery, Hardwood
20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Benches
Brass
People Also Browsed
21st Century and Contemporary English Regency Sofas
Mohair, Hardwood
Antique 19th Century French Louis XVI Bergere Chairs
Damask, Giltwood
Antique Mid-19th Century English High Victorian Taxidermy
Other
Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Cabinets
Brass
Antique Late 18th Century French Belle Époque Canapes
Fabric, Upholstery, Beech
Antique 1750s English Chinese Chippendale Sofas
Antique 1880s English High Victorian Sofas
Upholstery, Hardwood
Early 20th Century English Charles II Settees
Tapestry, Velvet
Finding the Right Loveseats for You
Antique and vintage loveseats are functional and totally charming furniture in homes large and small these days. They first appeared in the 17th and 18th centuries, though they were not yet known by this endearing term.
These petite, two-seat sofas were originally intended to comfortably sit a woman clad in what were the era’s large and elaborate dresses — ornate hooped garments with copious folds of fabric, embroidery and lace. However, because the original seats featured just enough space for two, they quickly became popular for couples that were courting. Loveseats meant that the couples could engage in close conversation, but furniture makers ensured that there was enough space between sitters to prioritize modesty.
In the early days of loveseats, the furnishings were minimalist in appearance and could often be found in an s-shape, with the two sides facing each other. The spare seating was initially little more than a wooden bench, as loveseats weren’t yet upholstered or cushioned. Design of the seating evolved over time, and this wide chair was eventually padded and tufted for comfort. During the 1800s, loveseats were a luxurious addition to the homes of the wealthy, and even today, antique 19th-century loveseats are still quite alluring. In any lavishly decorated parlor of the Victorian era, you might find a pair of partygoers tucked into a particularly plush iteration of these cozy perches, one boasting arched crests of carved mahogany over its sculpted seats, with front cabriole legs resolving in paw feet.
In modern homes, loveseats — even antique Victorian loveseats — pair well with oversize sofas or are ideal replacements for sofas, particularly if you’re working on organizing and furnishing a smaller space. A loveseat is a stylish addition to a home library or a reading nook and can easily be situated at the foot of the bed in your bedroom. In the living room, you may wish to position your vintage loveseat and couch around a central focal point, such as a distinguishing architectural feature or a fireplace. But be sure to leave some walking room between your seating and any nearby coffee tables or side tables. Allow for around two feet for guests to pass between a couch and chair or loveseat and at least a foot between a loveseat and coffee table.
Find a wide variety of antique, new and vintage loveseats today on 1stDibs.
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