A pair of late George III ebonised and parcel-gilt Klismos chairs circa 1805, in the manner of Thomas Hope

after the Antique, currently covered in striped yellow silk, redecorated

Probably ordered by William Cavendish, 5^th Duke of Devonshire (1748-1811) in conjunction with his second wife Lady Elizabeth Foster (1759–1824)

Devonshire House Inventory, 1811, as two of the three low bronzed Grecian chairs;
John Cornforth, Chatsworth, Derbyshire VII, Country Life, August 1, 1968, p. 284

The later painted decoration has some chips and wear throughout. Both the top rails have horizontal splits and both chairs have repairs to one upright. The bases of the legs are especially worn and chipped. Both these chairs with supporting metal braces screwed to the inside of each rear leg.
"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."

These 'Grecian' chairs and the preceeding Lot betray the influence of the celebrated arbiter of early Regency taste, Thomas Hope (1769–1831)

Thomas Hope acquired his celebrated house in Duchess Street in 1799 and quickly set about remodelling it and furnishing it in a style stronging inspired by his Grand Tours of Greece and Egypt. The first floor apartments of the house were laid out as rooms of display to be opened to the public, living apartments were above. In February 1804 he sent out tickets of admission to sixty members of the Royal Academy which were to admit the bearer and three friends to the house between 18th February and 31st March. Curiosity about the house grew and there was much positive praise. As well as Royal Academicians, admission would be granted in the case of 'An application signed by some persons of known character and taste'.  The design of this chair relates closely to a chair illustrated in Thomas Hope, Regency Furniture and Interior Decoration , p. 69, pl. 4. (IS THIS A BOOK, IF SO PLEASE GIVE A DATE)