Empire style ormolu mounted mahogany canapé

This large and impressive canapé is crafted from ormolu mounted mahogany in the Empire style. The canapé features a blocky seat rail, raised by four feet—the front two modelled as paws. The backrest is surmounted by a mahogany pediment, which is centred with an ormolu mount comprised of a classical vase flanked by two winged figures pouring water. The front of the seat rail is set with a large foliate ormolu mount, while the posts that support the cylindrical armrests are modelled as columns with ormolu capitals and bases. The seat and backrest of the canapé are finished with fine red upholstery adorned with gilt polka dots.

The piece is a fine example of the monumentality and sparing use of decoration that define the Empire style.