Prudent Mallard was one of the most famous providers of fashionable furniture in the Gulf South. His shop was known for monumental armoires in the revival styles of the Victorian era, massive tester beds with carved cabochons on the head and footboards, and delicate parlor furniture in the French taste. Like many furniture retailers, Mallard had trouble getting payment from his customers and was forced to declare bankruptcy twice. The inventories from each of his bankruptcies show that Mallard did not own any materials for manufacturing furniture, only for finishing and upholstery work. He imported furniture directly from the centers of style in France and New York and employed skilled craftsmen to assemble and upholster these pieces for the local market. In addition to fine furniture and upholstery, Mallard also sold imported “fancy goods” such as French porcelain, mantel clocks, and bronze ornaments to complete the decor of stylish homes.