A pair of Irish William IV carved giltwood and caned armchairs in the manner of James Del Vecchio circa 1835

Sold Sotheby's New York, October 21-22, 1999, lot 438

These extraordinary chairs would benefit from some workshop attention. The painted surface is unstable in places and there is some flaking. There are exposed areas of gesso and some re-touching and re-painting. There are minor separations to some joints. There is evidence of worm to the seat rails and as a result there is splitting to the area in which the cane is threaded. Typical marks, wear and chips from age and use. Re-blocked.
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.

James Del Vecchio came from a family of craftsmen, originally from Moltrasio in Italy, and was part of a larger group of plasterers, carvers, and print sellers coming from Italy to England and Ireland around 1800. The Del Vecchio firm, under various sons, was listed in the Dublin directory from 1797 till 1860. The exaggerated paw feet, heavy gilt carving and Italian influences recall his work. A pair of sofas sold Christie's London, May 7, 2009, lot 33, from Doneraile Court, Co. Cork attributed to Del Vecchio displays similar heavy spiral-fluted legs, while a pier table with a Del Vecchio label sold Sotheby's London, December 8, 1972, lot 160 displays eagle monopodia with massive claw feet similar to those on the present chair.