Rediscovering the Circular Sofa: An Object Lost & Found in History

Dublin Core

Title

Rediscovering the Circular Sofa: An Object Lost & Found in History

Subject

Sofa/Borne -- 18th century furniture

Description

In the realm of antique furniture, few pieces have as much charm and history as the circular sofa or borne. This unique piece of furniture has graced the homes of dignitaries and aristocrats across centuries, and each one carries a story that's as unique as its design. Today, we are delving into the fascinating history of one such piece - a circular sofa that was once a part of the Dixon-Welling family's private collection.

The Dixon-Welling Collection

The sofa was housed in the Washington, D.C. home of Navy Secretary, Gideon Welles during the Civil War and later in the home of Senator James Dixon and Elizabeth L.C. Dixon family known for their exquisite taste in furniture, and their collection was a testament to their love for unique, timeless pieces. The circular sofa stood as the centerpiece of their collection, embodying their passion for historical artifacts and their commitment to preserving them for future generations.

The Journey to the Museum

After many years in the Dixon-Welling family home, the circular sofa found its way to the Connecticut Culture and History Museum. The journey began on May 18, 1976 when Miss Elizabeth D. Welling, the granddaughter of Sen. Dixon and Elizabeth L.C. Dixon, generously donated the piece. This donation helped preserve the sofa's legacy and allowed a wider audience to appreciate its historical significance.

A Deeper Look at the Circular Sofa (Borne)

The circular sofa or borne is a unique piece of furniture that originated in 19th-century France. It was often found in the middle of large rooms, providing an elegant and comfortable seating area for guests. The sofa is circular and often features lush upholstery, deep seating, and intricate woodwork. It serves as both a functional piece of furniture and a statement piece, drawing the eye and sparking conversation.

Continuing the Legacy

The Dixon-Welling circular sofa now sits in the Connecticut Culture and History Museum under the accession number 1977.25.3. It continues to captivate visitors with its unique design and rich history, serving as a testament to the timeless appeal of antique furniture. The sofa's journey from a private collection to a museum exhibit is a fascinating tale of preservation and discovery, reminding us of the importance of preserving historical artifacts for future generations.

Conclusion

The journey of the Dixon-Welling circular sofa is a perfect example of how historical artifacts can be lost and then found again. Through the efforts of individuals like Miss Elizabeth D. Welling and institutions like the Connecticut Culture and History Museum, we can continue to discover and preserve these pieces of history. As we appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of the circular sofa, we also pay tribute to the people and stories that it represents.

Creator

Unknown

Rights

CC BY 4.0 DEED

Files

1977_25_3.jpg
1977_25_3dt.jpg
Date Added
February 17, 2020
Collection
PUBLIC MUSEUM COLLECTION
Item Type
Object
Citation
Unknown, “Rediscovering the Circular Sofa: An Object Lost & Found in History,” e A r c h i V e s , accessed April 24, 2024, https://citizenarchivist.omeka.net/items/show/629.