A George II walnut double-chairback settee circa 1730

The inside edge of one rail with a paper label inscribed 192 Mahog.  Replacements.

Overall good restored condition; old repaired break to the top right corner of cresting rail at join with right stile now with ties to edges; the center of the cresting rail with pegs which are part of the construction but also with two old plugs to back above central stiles; sun-fading to left armrest; old repaired cracks and separation to handholds at joins with armrest supports each now with shims and two plugs; shoe to right splat with an age crack; age crack to top of front left leg; five brackets replaced; later corner blocks to seat rails; central stretcher support replaced; top of central back leg with a thin replaced section at join with seat rail and tenon and two plugs; wear, nicks and losses to the edges and undersides of the feet; overall with some old marks, scratches, scuffs and bruises consistent with age and use; the drop-in seat appears to be partially old and now with reinforced rails; traces of black varnish in corners and around feet.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The design of the front leg, with its well carved claw-and-ball toe and stylized shell carving to the knee, may also be compared to the documented work of Giles Grendey (see Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture 1700-1840, Christopher Gilbert, 1996, p. 242, fig. 434.). A set of dining chairs attributed to Giles Grendey, with similar shell-carved legs and claw-and-ball feet, was sold in these rooms, April 16-17, 1998, lot 802.