A Louis XV suite of carved beechwood seat furniture, two armchairs and the sofa stamped Bovo mid-18th century and later

comprising five armchairs and a sofa, each armchair with a cartouche shaped padded back above downscrolled padded arms and serpentine seat, on cabriole legs, the frame carved with flowers and leaves, the sofa with a serpentine padded back and loose cushion seat within a similarily carved frame; variation in carving of sofa;  restorations and replacements to the legs (6)

Joints sound and sturdy. Old minor marks chips and scratches. Two chairs have replaced rear seat rails. Several chairs have later legs. There are also old restorations generally. Evidence of old worm which appears to be no longer active. In overall good restored condition. Can be placed immediately. To discuss this lot in greater detail please call Edward Rising on 0207 293 5507 or David MacDonald on 0207 293 5107
"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."

Comparative Literature:
L'Objet d'art, No. 417, October 2006, illustrates a rare salon suite comparable to this one, stamped Bovo on four of the armchairs.

Although there is a paucity of information about this maker, Bovo was a Parisian menusier active during the reign of Louis XV. There is however, a divergence of opinion, as certain authors state that the Bovo stamp corresponds to the mark of a sculptor rather than that of a menuisier. Others attribute it to Léonard Beauvau who was part of the circle of Nicolas Heurtaut, who besides being a master of sculpture was also menuisier of chairs. This could also be the case of the mysterious Bovo and would explain the quality of his production and originality of the carving of some of his seat furniture.