A grey and white painted suite attributed to Claude Chevigny Louis XVI, last quarter 18th century

comprising: a canapé, eight fauteuils à la Reine and one hearthscreen, each with leaf-tip and beaded carved border, the fauteuils with oval-shaped backrest, padded arms, on fluted tapered legs, the canapé and hearth screen topped with pine apple finials

Originally from a French castle, thence by descent into a Southwest German noble collection

Overall minor old traces of woodworm, but solid chairs, usual wear at armrests due to usage, fabric padded arms with some tears, minor losses to extremities, some small construction restaurations to seat-frames. The sofa with front left leg restored but again very solid, one chair with leg wich needs restorations.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Claude Chevigny received Master in 1768. Claude Chevigny, both menuisier and chair carver, supplied numerous chairs to the circle of the banker Laborde. In 1773, he delivered a very similar suite of seat furniture to Micault d'Harvelay, Laborde's brother-in-law, for the Grand Salon of his hôtel particulier in the rue d'Artois which had been constructed by Barre: 'Quatorze fauteuils à la Reine à la grecque assortis aux bergères (carderon) baguette et entrelacs au pourtour, feuille chimène sur la console'.  Chevigny's chairs are usually of great quality. He supplied, amongst others, the duchesse d'Enville, the duc de Penthièvre, mademoiselle Guimard, and the marquis de Paulmy.