It takes a bit of investigation into each piece. This particular settee is often referred to as a medallion-back sofa. They were made in the Victorian period of the late 19th century and were usually sold as part of a full parlor set with matching chairs. The difference between older pieces and mid-century repros can be found in the construction and materials. Victorian-period pieces feature exposed frames made of mahogany or walnut. The floral carved crests are deep and usually show signs of inconsistency in the handiwork. Reproductions were made by Kimball Manufacturing Co. (International) in Dayton, Ohio, which specialized in "Victorian revival" pieces produced through the 1960s well into the 1980s, including medallion back settees. Although their exposed frames were made from Honduras mahogany wood from Italy, the floral crests were made from molds and lacked detailing, and the exposed frames didn't show any signs of wood grain. Also, look for Kimball's paper labels, which often remain on the bottom of the seats.

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