European Sofas, Couches & Chaises

Because of Europe’s geography, the development of sofas and chaise lounges varied but was usually influenced by stylistic trends from several countries. The Italian Renaissance of the 14th and 15th centuries ushered in designs inspired by Greco-Roman traditions. During the 17th century, when the Baroque style was popular in Southern and Northern Europe, sofas featured ornate gilded designs.

Beginning in the 18th century, European furniture designs developed more swiftly than before. Some designs, such as those that borrowed from Rococo and Neoclassicism, spread throughout Western Europe. Others were restricted primarily to one nation, such as England's Chesterfield sofa and French monarchical styles.

Twentieth century furniture design was influenced by artistic movements such as Art Deco, De Stijl, and Bauhaus. This furniture was usually simpler in design and sometimes incorporated materials developed during World War II, such as laminated plywood.

Quick Facts

• A 20th century three-seater Settee designed by Valerian Ryber & Diagre sold at Christie's New York in September 2007 for $10,000
• An Italian yellow damask upholstered covered three seater sofa, Modern, sold at Sotheby's London in January 2016 for $3,750