A pair of Italian cream painted and parcel-gilt chairs from the Royal Palace in Milan, each stamped M.R. early 19th century

with inventory numbers in red ink, stamped MR and branded inventory numbers and a printed paper label Palazzo Reale Di Milano appartamento di Rappresentanza di S. M. L'Impriatore e Re NO 194...and the branded mark F2956 75 and the inventory number in red paint A255..., the other chair with the same printed label and MR twice and F 2955 75 and the printed paper label 194? and an illegible ink inscription and the red inventory number 25565

In overall good conserved condition. Joints sound and sturdy. Decoration refreshed. Old minor, marks, chips and losses to painted decoration.
"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."

The present model is illustrated by Enrico Colle, Mobile e Intagli Lignei, Museo d'Arti Applicate, Milan, 1996, cat. no. 497, pp. 294 and 298. The chairs described by Colle which are today in the Museo del Risorgimento bear an identical label to the offered pair; "Palazzo Reale Di Milano/ Appartamento di Rappresentanza di S. M. L'Impriatore e Re NO 194...." At the beginning of the century the chairs were documented in the Prima Sala degli Arazzi of the Palazzo Reale in Milan, illustrated in the archival photograph before the bombing of the Palazzo (F. Conti, Palazzi Reale e Residenze Signorili, Novara, 1986, p. 120). A similar model with leaves around the seat-rail and back was also conceived for the Lombard Imperial Residences.

A set of six identical chairs painted in white and green with an almost identical label coming from a Private Collection, was sold in these Rooms, 13th December 2000, lot 248.