An Impressive Victorian carved oak and upholstered sofa in the manner of Richard Bridgens, circa 1840

the shaped arched back carved with scroll carved flower head decoration and with lobed finials, with tapering front legs and outswept rear legs

Good solid condition, some wear to the arms and the legs. The upholstery would benefit from a clean. One of the back legs has a restored break. To discuss this lot in greater detail please call Edward Rising or David Macdonald on 0207 293 5107 or 0207 293 5507.
"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."

There was a paper note written by hand in a table drawer beside the sofa with 'worked [the upholstery] by Mrs Harbin, 1936'.

The sofa is interesting as it is a hybrid. There are 'Grecian' motifs, such as the scrolled anthemion on its cresting rail and 'Elizabethan' motifs evident in the apron frieze and legs. With its raked back and outswept feet this seems reminiscent of two sofa designs by Richard Bridgens from 1838, see Furniture and Candelabra and Interior Decoration op. cit. This Grecian twist may well come from his time working under George Bullock (1777-1818), a Regency designer who produced work with highly stylised Greek designs.