White Leather Chesterfield Loveseat
Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Loveseats
Faux Leather
Vintage 1970s French Chesterfield Sofas
Leather
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21st Century and Contemporary American Chesterfield Sofas
Leather
Antique 19th Century English Victorian Sofas
Leather, Mahogany
Antique 19th Century French Louis XV Armchairs
Wood
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Velvet, Wood
21st Century and Contemporary North American Sofas
Linen
Mid-20th Century Hollywood Regency Sofas
Fabric
Antique 18th Century French Louis XVI Canapes
Upholstery, Wood
Vintage 1950s American Hollywood Regency Sofas
Oak, Upholstery
20th Century French Modern Sofas
Fabric, Wood
Vintage 1970s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Chrome
Mid-20th Century English Victorian Sofas
Leather, Wood
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Loveseats
Leather
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Wood, Fabric
2010s German Sofa Tables
Glass
20th Century American George III Wingback Chairs
Brass
Antique Mid-19th Century British Chesterfield Settees
Leather
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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