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Knole Sofa
No one quite knows when the first knole sofa was made, but the most famous one of all is around 350 years old and can still be seen today. Named after the house it has lived in for over three centuries, people can see the oldest known knole in the world at Knole House in Sevenoaks, Kent. Visitors aren’t able to sit in it, though, as it is kept securely in a glass cabinet. The knole sofa, characterised by its high-sided, drop-down arms with rope ties and its tall, upright back, is not the most comfortable-looking thing in the world, but you’d be surprised. Throw some scatter cushions around a bit, nest yourself in, and you’ll be there for the night! Many stories exist about how the knole sofa’s unique style came to be designed. The curators at Knole House tell of one theory which holds that its shape was made to accommodate the huge dresses that ladies sometimes wore during the 17th century. The bigger the dress, the more she would have the sofa’s arms dropped. Others, however, say that the high back and arms are there to protect those relaxing on these sofas from the cold winter draughts that howl through ancient windows and doorframes. This even makes sense in today's insulated homes, and ¯ as I’ve owned a knole for a number of years ¯ I can confirm that it does help keep a person snug and warm even on the coldest of winter’s nights. The above two explanations for the development of the knole are perfectly reasonable, and you can take your pick as to which one you prefer ¯ but before you do, let me tell you about the third and most interesting theory. Around 350 years ago a certain lady of high standing lived a privileged life in a great house with plenty of servants, clothes, shoes, and jewellery. Rather than not having a care in the world, though, she had a serious problem that inspired her to have the knole sofa made. Her problem involved privacy. Her husband was often away, and even when he was at home paid her no attention at all. Because of this unreasonable behaviour, she felt left with no alternative but to take on a number of lovers, which she apparently did with great gusto. Her male friends called on her when her husband was away on business, and they would spend many a happy hour reading, writing, sewing, and singing. This was obviously exhausting, so they would periodically retire to the sofa for some rest. The knole was made especially for her private room, and the high sides and back ¯ so they say ¯ obstructed the view available to her trusted servants’ nosy eyes, just in case they peeped through the keyhole! If this all sounds a bit fantastic, then consider why the arms were made to drop. The story goes that while one arm (facing the keyhole) was only slightly lowered ¯ for extra comfort! ¯ the other (facing the window which looked up the estate’s long driveway) was lowered fully, so the lovers could see if the husband or perhaps other visitors were arriving, giving them plenty of time to get themselves composed and downstairs. I don't know which theory you believe, but I know which one I prefer! Whatever the reason, I’m delighted the knole was invented. It is a super, practical design for a sofa that can convert into a bed with the arms fully dropped (and supported by cushions), and it has a good, wide seating area which is not cramped by thick, silly arms, providing whoever sits in it with more room to relax. It is a timeless sofa that can be as modern or traditional as a person likes, depending on the surroundings and fabric choice. Best of all, no matter where its owner puts it or with whatever material the coverings are made, it will always be a truly classic and timeless sofa.
TIPS ON BUYING A KNOLE SOFA Buying new. Obviously a bespoke hand-made sofa is the best bet. You’ll be buying something that is made to last for lifetimes, the fabric choice will be from the best suppliers, and, as with anything of quality, it will give oodles of pleasure. If you don't fancy paying anywhere from £2000-£5000 though, go for a cheaper mass-produced model, (from around £500) but remember: you’ll own the same sofa in the same fabric as hundreds or thousands of other people, and ¯ God forbid ¯ possibly the same as your own neighbour. Don't expect a great frame, fabric, or quality. You only get what you pay for. Buying and restoring an old Knole Because the Knole is fully upholstered it can be difficult to date without taking a look at the frame. Castors are a good indicator of age, as is the fabric with which it’s covered and the way it’s upholstered. Many, though, have been reupholstered, so it’s best to use an expert to help you if you fancy an old one restored. The cost should be from around £1500 David Harper 2006
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