A set of six George IV mahogany caned dining chairs by Gillows of Lancaster circa 1825

each stamped GILLOWS LANCASTER.

Sold Christie's New York, April 22, 1999, lot 27 ($12,650)

Good condition; would benefit from a light wax; the surface is slightly dry; caning in good condition; one chair with broken caning; solid and sturdy; the rails are made of solid mahogany; overall with minor old marks, scratches and bruises.
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.

The present set of chairs is nearly identical to a design by Gillows dated 1825 (archives E102 1952) made for Earl Cornwallis for the dining room at Linton Park, Kent.  A number of identical sets of chairs exists, one set is illustrated in situ at Erddig Park, Denbighshire in the dining room (H.A. Tipping, English Homes, period IV, vol. I London, 1925, p. 188, fig. 244).  Another set of this model from Belton House was sold by Lord Brownlow at Christie's, April 30-May 2, 1984, lot 55.  For further discussion on variant models, see S. Stewart, Gillows of Lancaster and London, 1730-1840, Woodbridge, 2008, vol. I, pp. 218-223, and vol. II, p. 368, pl. GG12.