An Irish carved mahogany tester bed 18th century and later

with a leaf carved and pierced cornice supporting a canopy, the front uprights carved with foliate capitals, cluster columns including balusters sections carved with fruiting vines and ending in foliate carved blocks, reconstructed

For similar carving, notably the treatment of fruiting vines see an Irish tester bed attributed to John Houghton and illustrated Knight of Glin and James PeilI, Irish Furniture, Yale, 2007, p. 78 and p. 89.

In good general condition however we would advise that it is constructed by a qualified antique furniture restorer as the joints are somewhat loose at present. The pierced cornice has had some repairs and has one section (approximately 10in. long) broken off and detached. One of the turned posts has some repaired and filled cracks. The posts have extensions to the tops and filled in sections to their bases (formerly the sights where bed rails would have joined the posts). An impressive bed which once professionaly restored will very decorative.
"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."