The graceful, curving shape of the couch is typical of the early 19th century. Events such as the rediscovery of Pompeii in 1748 and Napoleon's invasion of Egypt in 1798 had led to an increased interest in the classical world. This interest ultimately helped shape the style of the era, particularly its clothing, furniture, and other decorative arts, all of which showed strong Roman, Greek, Egyptian, and Etruscan influences between about 1790 and 1840. This classical stylistic influence is evident in the shape of the couch and the pomegranate motif on the legs.

The couch is one of a pair which, along with several matching side chairs, have a history of ownership by John Marshall.