The Chesterfield sofa carries with it a sense of sophistication, style, and luxury. Images of serene settings where a gentleman relaxes while his wife sits nearby on a chair knitting, or of well groomed and formally attired men lounging in a social club. The name itself attaches a sense of class and loftiness to the idea of a sofa. How did it come to be that a Chesterfield sofa is considered a luxury to be enjoyed by royalty and the elite upper class? Better yet how is it that such an image and reputation are attached to a piece of furniture that is now available and affordable for nearly any furniture buyer. A look at the history of this fine piece of furniture yields some interesting results.

There is no definitive conclusion as to the origin of the Chesterfield sofa; however there is a general consensus that ties this classic sitting piece to royalty in the 18th century. Philip Dormer Stanhope, The fourth Earl of Chesterfield, was considered a trend setter. He was a man of sophistication and style, writing prolifically on the subjects of morals and manners.  The Earl is attributed with originating  Chesterfield furniture by commissioning a renowned cabinet maker to produce an item of furniture that would allow a gentleman to sit upright in utmost comfort. Some speculate that the name is simply derived from the name of the town in Derbyshire where it is believed the first Chesterfield sofa was produced. Although the most popular form of the sofa is the 2 seater sofa, the three seater sofa is quite comfortable as well. Cynics claim that connecting this sofa style with royalty is just a marketing gimmick designed to sell more of them. No one is certain.

Whatever the truth of its origins may be, the Chesterfield sofa has become a symbol of grace and elegance in sitting room furniture. Throughout the years these timeless pieces of art have adorned luxurious private homes, Palaces of royalty, libraries, and government offices. It is widely believed that Sigmund Freud used this style of sofa during his hypnosis sessions with patients.

Today the leather Chesterfield sofa, with its distinctive rolled arms at the same height as the sofa back, deep buttoned upholstery and nail head trim, is instantly recognizable. It has become common in sitting rooms the world over and its popularity seems to have no end. This is due to a perfect blending of factors important not only in sofa design, but in design on general. The item in question is comfortable and practical, it fulfills its simple purpose, and in the case of the Chesterfield sofa, has a touch of royalty about it.