Couch
Late Neoclassical (Empire) style, 1825-1840
Baltimore
Probably purchased by Eliza Ridgely in the early 1830s, by the late 19th century this elegant couch graced the Music Room at Hampton. The shape of this type of sofa is derived from that of an ancient Roman triclinium or banqueting couch, as reinterpreted by English designers such a Thomas Hope and Thomas Sheraton in the early 19th century. The choice of costly rosewood rather than mahogany is unusual, for this South American hardwood did not come into frequent use in American furniture until mid-century. This couch was likely made in Baltimore by a leading but unknown cabinetmaker.
Rosewood. H 82.6, W 219, D 56.5 cm
Hampton National Historic Site, HAMP 8538