An original Knole sofa in superb condition.Sofas didn’t exist before the 17th century. Seating for more than one person was generally on benches, which would be pushed against the wall for back support and protection from cold. In the early 1600s, though, an upholstered settee was ordered for Knole, one of the great historic English houses, and became an important prototype for the sofa.

The Knole sofa, was commissioned not as a comfy sofa, but as a kind of royal throne. More generously proportioned than a typical chair (more like a deep two-seater), it also featured a high back and sides that were designed to help ward off draughts. The sides were hinged so they could be angled down for naps.The original settee was probably ordered for Knole between 1610 and 1620, soon after the estate (once owned by Henry VIII) had been purchased and renovated by the Sackville family, who still own it.Subsequent versions of the Knole sofa featured finials at the top of the sides and back, and decorative tasseled ropes tying the sides and back together, which could be loosened to allow the sides to angle down. (Courtesy Apartment Therapy)