This settee, with its original caning and geometric form, is an early example by Michael Thonet. By the 1850s, Thonet had perfected his innovative use of beech rods in his bentwood furniture; first soaked in hot water, the rods were then placed in iron molds and allowed to dry. The furniture was often shipped to the purchaser unassembled, keeping costs low. This new way to quickly and affordably mass-produce objects evolved into a thriving company with Thonet’s five sons, Gebrüder Thonet. The company designed hundreds of objects with delicate, lightweight appearances.