A set of ten George III mahogany dining chairs circa 1775, attributed to Gillows of Lancaster

including a pair of armchairs, with drop-in horsehair upholstered seats

Good overall condition. Minor restorations to perhaps two splats which are very difficult to detect. Characteristic minor old marks, scuffs and scratches consistent with age and use. Lovely quality of timber. Exceptionally good colour and patina. Some with loose joints which wil require attention. An unusual design.
"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."

The present chairs closely relate to a design by Gillows in their Estimate Sketch Book of about 1775 for a chair `With upright baluster splats', illustrated in Lindsay Boynton in Gillow Furniture Designs 1760-1800, 1995, Herts., pl.248, see illus. and numbered 9 in the Workmen`s Agreement of 1785.

A large set of chairs with backs and carved legs of almost identical design to the present lot have been identified as being made by Gillows in 1779 and ordered by `Mr Stanley of Liverpool' for a kinsman and delivered in October 1779. Gillows described them as: `...20 neat mahogany chairs wth. 3 upright open splats & moulded backs & front legs ca 17s. 6d..'. The chairs which differ from the present lot in that they have stuffed seats rather then drop-in seats are illustrated in Susan Stuart Gillows of Lancaster and London 1730-1840, 2008, 2 Vols., Vol. I, pp.176-177, illus. pl.139.