Settee from "Turkish" Parlor Set, 1885-1895

By the late 19th century, people could afford to buy a roomful of factory-made, designed-to-match furniture. This was reassuring for those uncertain of their decorating skills. Owning such pieces helped confirm one's social standing. This settee, part of a "Turkish" parlor set, reflects Americans' fascination with the exotic, especially the near and far east, although sets of this type were never made there.