A set of George III mahogany library steps late 18th/early 19th century

each of the five treads inset with carpet and between fret carved sides with a raised hand pole to the top tread

Chatsworth Inventory, 1792, either p.33 Room adjoining 'Olde Library' a small pair of mahogany steps covered with carpeting or p.42, A mahogany pair of steps covered with Wilton Carpet

Fair condition. The treads are worn with many scuffs chips and marks and there are old marks and scratches throughout.
"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."

A number of library steps of this design survive in the collection, both late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century in date. They are associated with those made for Lady Georgiana Spencer, Duchess of Devonshire. They are referred to in the Handbook p. 29: My Mother was exceedingly fond of arranging the books, and it is not long since there were cards fastened to the sides of each case (in the Lower Library), with little catalogues in her handwriting; and she was always climbing up the steps, of which I have several copies made for other parts of the house.