A fine and rare Central Italian brass-mounted wrought iron faldistorio 16th century

with turned brass finials above a later red velvet upholstered ribbon-tied tasselled cushion on octagonal headed x-frame supports joined by a stretcher on pad feet

Colour less green and more golden than in photograph. Joints sound and sturdy. Overall minor marks, scratches and pitting commensurate with age. Minor section missing from base of finial of one which is hardly noticeable. In overall good condition. Very rare piece. A very fine example of a wrought iron faldistorio. Collector's item. Highly recommended.
"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:
William M. Odom, A History of Italian Furniture, Volume I, New York, 1966, p. 338 and 339, figs. 334 and 335, for a similar faldistorio, the latter dated 1604 and in the Metropolitan Museum, New York-see fig. 1.

This type of stool derives from the Antique curule stool and there is a Pompeian example dating from the 1st century A.D. now at the Museo Nazionale in Naples.This type of folding stool suited the peripatetic lifestyle of families in the Middle Ages. During  the Renaissance with the rediscovery of Antiquities, this model commmonly called  a faldistorio enjoyed the favour of Sovereigns, Popes and Bishops during outdoor ceremonies. A related example dating from the 16th century is in the Bardini Collection, Florence.

Although these models continued to be made throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, it is rare to find a 16th century example as the offered lot.

Also compare a related faldistorio sold in these Rooms as lot 61, 11th December 1992, (sold £31,000).