Hello! Can anyone tell me more about this sofa?

Hello!

I am a young, antique newbie.  I recently purchased this sofa (yes - it is missing a foot) and want to know if anyone can tell me anything about it. It's origin? Time frame it which it could have been made? Style (Empire?) I've done some research online but it has elements of a few different styles and I haven't been able to determine anything even remotely conclusive.

Also - if anyone has any suggestions for books or websites I can start learning about period styles and restoration - please let me know. Thanks!

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs465.ash1/25523_970395826846_2535738_53128206_7828509_n.jpg

Yes, I would classify this sofa as Empire Style and date it circa 1830-1850. As seen on many pieces of this period, there is thicker Mahogany veneer most likely glued over a secondary wood such as pine. Nice carvings! As Empire style sofas go, this is one of the better ones I've seen. As you mentioned, it is missing a foot section and has some veneer losses and damage. A good restorer could repair these losses with veneer pieces with grain that matches the the old and then color it to match. A really good craftsperson/woodcarver could also custom make a new foot section and blend it in to match as well. The question is, how much do you want to invest in the piece? The upholstery also seems a bit drab for the period and style. I would suggest google-ing "American Empire Furniture" and see what is available. Of all the early Victorian styles collected, Empire is the least popular because many Empire pieces tend to be "clunky" and ungraceful. This sofa, however, is one of the better forms. Mahogany Empire pieces from the 1830-1850 period really do not bring as much as they should in the market place but outside of the South, where Antebellum plantation houses were originally decorated with this kind of furniture, (although much of it was made and used up north as well) there does not seem to be a lot of demand so prices remain affordable for the most part.

Please feel free to follow up with additonal specific questions and I'll try to help you get answers. There are so many books in the marketplace...but I cannot think of one specifically devoted to this kind of Empire style furniture. Maybe someone else can suggest a title?

Two of my favorite books for this period are Philadelphia Empire Furniture and Classical Taste in America.

I think your sofa may be a tad earlier than 1830 but certainly in the vicinity and style vintrest stated.

Thank you both very much! Very helpful!