A set of ten Regency mahogany and ebony inlaid dining chairs circa 1810, possibly by Gillows of Lancaster

 in the manner of Thomas Hope, including a pair of armchairs

These are in very good condition. They have been re-polished and the seats re-covered. Minor marks on upholstery. Old marks and scratches. Minor old worm damage to rails
"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 relate closely to a design by Gillows. circa 1810, in The Gillows Estimate Sketch Books preserved at the Westminster Library, see illus. which suggests that the present set may have been made by Gillows.

The chairs are in the fashionable Greek  revival style promoted by Thomas Hope by his publishing in 1807 his `A Collection of Designs for Household Furniture and Interior Decoration' . Hope was of  wealthy Amsterdam banking stock and was a great collector and patron. He became a great promoter of the `Gout Grec' following his grand tour of 1787-1795 which imbued him with the `Spirit of Corinth and Athens'. His house in Duchess Street open to serious art collectors was witness to this passion and was much admired and a great influence on taste in 19th century.

As well as the art of the Antique which he studied while visiting Greece, Italy and Asia Minor, a second source for his designs, which Hope fully acknowledged, was the work of the French Empire designers, Percier and Fontaine, whose Recueil de Décorations Intérieurs, 1800, likewise owes a debt to the art of the classical civilisation. Hope`s direct influence can be seen in the designs of the architect and furniture designer George Smith whose designs for drawing room chairs in profile relate to the present lot, illus. Constance V. Hershey, George Smith`s Collection of Designs for Household Furniture and Interior Decoration, London, 1970, pl.55.