English School

Sotheby's London, May 26, 1983, lot 347, illustrated

John Cornforth, English Interiors 1790-1848, London, 1987, p. 112-3, illustrated pl. 153

Paper laid down on board, spots of foxing along lower center and right of composition. Works is affixed to mat board with three paper hinges along top edge.
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 Gothic inspired fan vaults of the Arbury Hall's dining room completed in 1779 are somewhat more restrained in decoration than those of the Saloon (see lot 248 for further information). The motif follows that of Henry VII's Chapel and Christ Church staircase.  The mullioned windows are set in pointed embrasures while the fireplace arch contains a diapered alcove and holds what must have been a specifically designed steel and brass grate.  The canopied wall niches hold copies of Classical sculptures, which may allude to Sir Roger Newdigate's endowment of the Radcliffe Library with Antique sculpture including the Arundel Marbles (Olive Cook, The English Country House Through Seven Centuries, London, 1984, p. 246; Christopher Hussey, English Country Houses, Mid-Georgian 1760-1800, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 1955, pp. 44-5).