A set of four George I walnut and marquetry side chairs circa 1715

the splats inlaid with a scallop-shell, maskheads and strapwork, with apparently original gross-point needlework covered seats, on leaf-carved cabriole legs

Generally these chairs are in exceptionally good condition. All have some old worm damage, particularly to the seat-rails. Most have some replaced cross stretchers. All have been re-finished and have some areas of staining Chair 1. Both front feet with old damage which has been patched. There is a small repair to the right hand upright adjacent to the join with the top-rail. Chair 2. Both back legs have been re-tipped. Chair 3 The bottom of the left hand upright has had worm damage and has been filled. Chair 4 The shoe has been cracked and repaired
"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."

After the ascent of the Hanovarian George I to the English throne in 1714, the influence of European craftsmen again became apparent both in the design and construction of English furniture. Certain features of the construction of the present chairs indicate that they may have been made by a Dutch craftsman, although their sophisticated design and form is more strongly English. The shape of the back, uprights and splat is closer to the design of other English chairs of the period indicating the close relationship of the maker with English practises. However it is unusual to find marquetry used as decoration at this period and the design incoporating grotesques and strapwork is rather strongly reminiscent of some of the designs of Daniel Marot which again might suggest the involvement of an émigré cabinet maker.

For comparison, see Sotheby`s, Sale of the Leverhulme Collection, 26, 27,28 June 2001, lot 65 and also Christie`s London, Fine English Furniture 19th September 2002, lot 191.