A set of six Italian carved giltwood armchairs, Roman late 18th century

each with a pierced rectangular open back with intersecting elliptical motifs above straight arms and inward curved fluted supports and padded seat, the seat-rail centred by a flowerhead and laurel leaves on fluted tapering front legs and fluted rear sabre legs, the frame carved with a band of husks 

In overall good conserved condition and can be placed immediately. Strong model. Gilding more golden and attractive than in the catalogue photograph.There is some wear to the gilding especially to the top of the arms which is normal and top-rails. Joints sound and sturdy. Old minor marks, and chips commensurate with age and normal usage. Evidence of old very minor worm which appears no longer active. There are some miniscule restorations to the elliptical motifs where there have been small breaks in the past which have been touched up and are hardly noticeable.There is an ink stamp under some of the chairs, probably a transport or duty label.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Giacomo Wannenes, Mobili d'Italia L'Otttocento, Milan, 1987, p. 71, figs. 75 and 76, for a pair of walnut chairs `a gondola', dating to the early 19th century, with identical intersecting elliptical motifs on the back as on the offered armchairs.