A set of mahogany metamorphic library steps Empire, early 19th century

the back with a pierced scroll carved splat, with scroll arms and sabre legs, opening to form library steps

Good overall condition. Leather seat a little worn and scuffed at front left hand edge and with some splits. Re-finished. Splat with age cracks and repaired. A rare and unsual chair
"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."

This armchair appears to follow a design by the London firm of Morgan and Sanders, published in Ackermann`s Repository in July 1811. Morgan and Sanders were specialists in the manufacture of `metamorphic' furniture' of this kind and held the patent for this particualr model, which was known as the `Patent Metamorphic Library Chair', ( see G.B. Hughes, `Regency Patent Furniture', Country Life, 2 January 1958, pp. 10-12, and B Austen, 'Morgan and Sanders and the Patent Furniture Makers of Catherine Street', Connoisseur, vol. 187, no.753, November 1974, pp.180-191).

For an English comparison see Christie`s London, English Furniture and Clocks, 19th November 2009, lot 56, sold £22,000.