19th century love seat / conversation settee

The 19th century love seat, also known as the conversation settee, was a popular style of furniture that emerged during the Victorian era. These seats were designed for intimate conversation between two people, and often featured a curved or S-shaped back to facilitate face-to-face interaction.

The love seat was a product of the changing social norms of the time, which placed greater emphasis on privacy, comfort, and leisure. As the middle class grew in size and wealth, people began to spend more time at home, entertaining guests and engaging in leisurely pursuits. The love seat provided a more... comfortable and stylish seating option for these activities.

One of the most famous designers of 19th century love seats was John Henry Belter, a German immigrant who worked in New York City. Belter's love seats were known for their intricate carvings, curved backs, and use of laminated rosewood. His designs were widely imitated, and many other furniture makers began producing love seats with similar features.

A long couch dating from the late 17th century, similar to a sofa with arms at either end. Unlike the upholstered sofa, however, the settee usually has a shaped wooden splat back, similar to dining chairs. In Australia, any small couch is sometimes known as a settee.