Pair of “Knole” settees with original braided fringes. The adjustable iron ratchets marked “Comyn Ching & Co. London”. This rare pair of settees are very closely modelled on the ca: 1640 sofa at Knole House, Sevenoaks, Kent and appear to date ca: 1875-1900. Most later copies lack the turned arm supports covered in fabric.

Castle Street, Long Acre, London; upholsterers, cabinet ironmongers (fl.1878)

The firm advertised as upholsterers and cabinet ironmongers in The Furniture Gazette, 23 March 1878.

Census records 1841-1881 show Comyn Ching as working in the ironmongery and gas fitting trade only. London Post Office Directories list the firm as engineers (ventilation) at 54, 56 & 58 Castle Street, 22 & 23 St Little Andrew Street & 3 Little White [Lion] Street, all W.C. (1880) as wholesale ironmongers at 3 Little White Lion Street in 1885 and as gas fitters at Little St Andrew Street in 1890. Ching seems to have only advertised as upholsterer in 1878 so it would seem that his foray into upholstery was shortlived.

Comyn Ching died in 1890 and his probate notice describes him as a gas engineer and ironmonger. His personal effects at death were valued at £8,425; his father had been a 'barrister in law' so may have financially helped his son establish the business.

H. 41 1/2in x W. 61in x D. 28in

https://bifmo.furniturehistorysociety.org/ent ry/comyn-ching-co-1878

All elements intact although the seat webbing requires some attention. Retaining original, well worn and faded, red velvet upholstery