Adler Sofa By Wilhelm Kimbel, Mainz, Circa 1835 – Biedermeier/empire-style Sofa In Walnut

An exceptional “eagle” sofa from the late Empire period, created around 1830–1835 in Mainz and attributed to the workshop of the cabinetmaker Wilhelm Kimbel (1786–1869). The sofa is distinguished by its elaborate carvings, its curved shape, and its distinctive design adorned with eagle figures.

The two eagles carved in the round at the outer ends of the sofa are particularly remarkable. Their bodies form the front ends of the armrests, while their finely crafted wings extend into the side ornamentation. The curved backrest is complemented by other carved motifs that highlight the exceptional quality of the craftsmanship.

Wilhelm Kimbel was one of Mainz’s leading cabinetmakers in the early 19th century. In 1815, he opened a workshop with his brother and made a name for himself particularly through his meticulously crafted furniture, his artistic carvings, and his own furniture designs. His clients included, notably, the nobility of Darmstadt and the Rothschild family of Frankfurt.

Kimbel published his designs in furniture journals, which also served as models for other craftsmen. It is particularly interesting to note that his *Journal für Möbelschreiner und Tapezierer* ” (Journal for Furniture Carpenters and Upholsterers), published in Mainz in 1837, contains a historical depiction of this type of furniture under the name “Eagle Sofa.”

The sofa is made of walnut and has undergone a complete restoration. Great care was taken to preserve the original patina and the historical character of the piece. The wooden surfaces were restored with shellac.

All of the upholstery has been completely renewed and reupholstered with a high-end designer fabric from JAB-Anstoetz Fabrics, the “Atrio” model, in dark green with a geometric pattern. This modern fabric creates a beautiful contrast with the warm walnut and particularly highlights the carved details.

Thanks to its distinctive shape and the combination of historic wood and modern upholstery, it fits equally well in both classic and contemporary interiors.

The sofa has been fully restored and is ready for installation.

The upholstery, including the internal frame, has been completely renewed and reupholstered with a high-end designer fabric. The sofa is ready for immediate use and combines its historic character with contemporary seating comfort.

Master cabinetmaker: Wilhelm Kimbel (1786–1869), Mainz, attributed

Description: Eagle Sofa

Origin: Germany, Mainz

Date: circa 1835

Period: Empire / transition to Biedermeier

Material: walnut, carved eagle figures

Upholstery: completely reupholstered, high-end designer fabric

Finish: polished shellac

Condition: Fully restored and ready for installation

Special features: Elaborate full-relief eagle carvings, curved backrest, historic design by Wilhelm Kimbel dating from 1837, fully reupholstered and suitable for placement anywhere in a room.

Width: 190 cm
Depth: 67.5 cm
Total backrest height: 110.5 cm
Armrest height: 83 cm
Seat width: 120 cm
Seat depth: 55 cm
Seat height: 53 cm