A fine set of ten George III mahogany dining chairs circa 1765

each serpentine cresting rail centered by a carved acanthus spray above a vase-form pierced splat carved with acanthus leaves, flanked by conforming stiles above an over-upholstered seat raised on square tapering legs joined by an H-stretcher. Together with 14 later copies. 24 pieces.

Croft Castle, Herefordshire
Sotheby's London, June 6, 2002, lot 99
Apter Fredericks, London, 2003

One side chair with old repaired breaks to top of right stile at join with cresting and bottom of left stile and with back right leg with old repaired split at join with back stretcher; second chair with front rail possibly replaced and with later corner struts; third chair with old repaired crack to inside edge of back right leg at join with side stretcher and with cresting rail with two small old worn nicks; fourth chair with front rail replaced; fifth chair with front rail and corner struts replaced; sixth chair with two small old repaired cracks to top of splat and with corner struts replaced; seventh chair with replaced front rail and one replaced corner strut; eight chair with some deep old bruises on stiles, some minor old repairs to splat and inside edge of backrail, and with side rails and corner struts replaced; ninth chair with some minor repairs to the splat and with front rail, side rail, and corner struts replaced; tenth chair with minor repairs to splat and top of left side rail and with corner struts replaced. Old chairs are sturdy and structurally sound with nice color and surface. Generally in good condition with usual nicks, wear, bruises, and scratches consistent with age and use. The modern copies are very well carved and well made; match well with the original chairs. Modern chairs are sturdy with usual scratches and wear consistent with use.
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.