Empire period mahogany sofa-bed with ormolu lyre and mercury bust decoration, 19th century

Empire period sofa-bed in solid mahogany and mahogany veneer, richly decorated with finely chased and gilded bronzes. The front of the sofa features a lyre in the center, framed by two sheathed legs with shafts decorated with caduceus and Mercury busts surmounted by a ball. The front features a crosspiece with palmettes and laurel wreaths. The back, with two uprights flanked by fleurons, is topped by a scrolled pediment featuring a semicircular bowl set between foliage, a medusa head and two laurel wreaths. This modular Empire sofa-bed can be placed against a wall, offering all the comfort of a sofa. It is furnished with a mattress (180x85 cm), six large cushions and four small cushions, upholstered in a striped gold jacquard fabric.

Mahogany in Empire furniture

Mahogany furniture was a must-have under the Empire. Whether solid or veneered, mahogany wood is in plentiful supply, as it can be worked in a variety of forms (flamed, moiré, etc.), allowing for beautiful contrasts when combined with bronze ornamentation.

Circa: 1810 Dim: L: 197cm, P: 86cm, H: 125cm.
Size: W: 77,6in, D: 33,9in, H: 49,2in.

Condition report: Very good condition. Restorations and stamp varnish. The whole tapestry is new.