When King Edward VIII's settee sold for seven-times its estimate...

It's not much to look at, or sit on, but the faded two-seater may have been the place where a famous and controversial romance began.

For this reason, the sofa has just sold at a Towcester auction for £2,150 not including Buyers Premium, smashing the estimate of £300-400.

Lady Thelma Furness, who knew Edward as Prince of Wales in the 1920s, and went on safari with him, was the previous owner of the pink sofa.

It is said that the sofa was previously a three-seater but that Lady Thelma, who coveted his affections herself, had it reduced as an ironic comment after introducing close friend Wallis to the Prince in 1931 and being beaten by her to his affections.

The British government refused Edward permission to marry divorcee Wallis, forcing him to abdicate in 1936, though it is thought they would not have pressed this dilemma if the new King had not been so pro-German.

Today's sale mirrors one earlier this year at which Churchill's sofa also smashed estimates.

Royal memorabilia is naturally very covetable.

At Paul Fraser Collectibles we currently have three royal photographs available: a signed picture of the Queen and Price Phillip, and pictures of Princess Diana and Queen Victoria, both also with signatures. 

This story was first published in September 2009.

 

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