A pair of George III mahogany stools circa 1780

in the manner of William and John Linnell, in neo-classical style, with pierced carved saddle seats

In overall good untouched condition. Colour and patina are both excellent. Both have characteristic indentations to the tops consistent with being sat on by liveried staff. Minor bruising to all corners.One stool is lacking mouldings at the top of all legs, the other is largely lacking the mouldings but several still remain. One seat cracked. Joints a little loose.
"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 pair of stools with their pierced saddle seats relate closely to a white painted stool of similar form sold Sotheby`s London, 10th September 2007, lot 294 with a provenance of the Earls of Jersey. This stool probably came from Osterley Park, the seat of the Earls of Jersey on the outskirts of London which was re-modelled by Robert Adam in the third quarter of 18th century. A  group of the furniture for this house was known to have been supplied by John Linnell to Robert Child ( d. 1782) and subsequently sold his descendant, Lady Isabella Harrison and it could be that the present stools are similarly associated ( H. Hayward & P. Kirkham, William and John Linnell: Eighteenth Century London Cabinet-Makers, London, 1980, vol. II, figs. 66, 69 & 72). Another possible maker could be the celebrated cabinet makers, Mayhew and Ince. A similar pair of stools was sold Christie`s London, Dealing in Excellence, a celebration of Hotspur & Jeremy, London, 20th November 2008, lot 29 (sold incl. premium £37,250). This pair was also linked with this maker who was known to have supplied a set of hall chairs for George Brodrick, 4th Viscount Midleton (d.1836) for Peper Harow, Surrey, which share the same fluted rail and tapering square legs.