A Fine and Rare Pair of Italian Chinoiserie Polychrome-Painted and Parcel-Gilt Doors probably Piedmont, second quarter 19th century

Ariane Dandois, Sotheby's New York, October 25, 2007, lot 214

Minor marks and scratches consistent with age and use. Painting and gilding refreshed. No worm, small cracks. Good overall condition.
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.

These doors almost certainly formed part of an interior decorated throughout in the same style. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries the passion for chinoiserie decoration was widespread and small Chinese cabinets were created and filled with collections of Chinese ceramics and objects. In Italy the vogue was particularly in favor at the Court of Savoy. The Palazzo Reale in Turin had no fewer than two gabinetti cinesi and the sala di gioco at the Palace of Stupinigi was entirely covered with chinoiserie scenes. Indeed the present doors can be compared with a set of wall lights made c. 1740 for Stupinigi, illustrated, V. Viale, Mostra del Barocco Piemontese, Turin, 1963, fig. 304-305.