Sofa 1857 - 1860

This sofa was made in the United States by Léon Marcotte. Its primary materials are wood, fabric, and gilt bronze. Take a moment to observe how the dark, polished wood of the frame contrasts with the plush, button-tufted upholstery. The wood has been carved and finished to a high sheen, while the fabric is likely silk damask, woven with an elaborate pattern. The process of creating such an object would have involved many specialized craftsmen: woodworkers, upholsterers, weavers, and metalworkers. Each of them played a part in bringing the sofa to life. The skills required to make a piece like this were highly valued, and the result would have been seen as a symbol of wealth and status. The mode of production reflects the broader social context of the time, with its hierarchies of labor and consumption. Considering the materials, making, and context helps us appreciate the full meaning of this object.