A North Netherlandish blue painted and parcel-gilt carved wooden hall bench first half 18th century

the pierced back and sides carved with a central flower vase flanked by eagles and snakes and scrolling foliage; redecorated

In overall good condition. The flower cresting is possibly a later addition as are five tassels below the seat-rail.
"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:
Reiner Baarsen and various authors, Rococo in Nederland, Amsterdam, 2001, p. 63, no. 6, illustrates a related hall bench, circa 1740-45, in the Amsterdams Historisch Museum with a pierced back carved with serpents, flowers, foliage and tasselled drapery seat-rail.

The hall bench became fashionable due to changes in the Dutch interior around 1690.The bench was intended for the hall, a broad aisle intended as a reception room. These wooden benches with beautifully carved backs fitted in well against the white stucco walls and marble floors. The ornamentation of the back of the bench is inspired by the designs of Daniel Marot. Designs for tasselled drapery which may well have inspired the maker of this hall bench can be seen illustrated by K. Ottenheym, Daniel Marot Vormgever van een deftig bestaan, Amsterdam, 1988, p. 84. Also see Annigje Hofstede, Nederlandse meubelen, van Barok tot Biedermeier, 1700-1830, 2004, p. 57-59, for various related hall benches, No. 76 is similar to this bench with a central vase and must have been inspired by Marot’s designs, illustrated op. cit., p. 58, no. 73.