A rare and wonderful French Empire “kissing settee” with wide solid mahogany panels making this loveseat perfectly private. Beautifully carved mahogany with curved swan imagery as separate back and side trim pieces and gorgeous front panels on both sides to include tall sweeping arms of curved swans, medallions and foliate imagery supported by wide carved paw feet.

Inset and hidden on each end are pocket privacy screens each with a top carved trim piece mimicking the swans on the back trim. The screens are upholstered to match the whole and can be either be pulled up for privacy or left down, showing off the royal blue striped satin seat cushion with gold & purple cord accents.

The settee dates to the 19th century, circa 1820 and is in very good condition. The history of the “loveseat” has been referred to by many names over history, some being “British two-seaters”, “courting couch”, “kissing couch”, “gossip’s chair”, “fainting bench”, “conversation bench”, and “tête-à-tête” (face-to-face”).

A historical and rare piece that has a real presence, in the rich solid mahogany design and craftsmanship, which is timeless because it fits into any modern setting.

Dimensions: width 51″ x depth 34″ x height 35″ ( Note: 57″ height with privacy screens up)