Two Mintons majolica monkey garden seats circa 1860-82

each modelled as a crouching monkey balancing a tasselled pillow on its head, one with impressed MINTON mark, the other with impressed MINTONS, date cypher for 1882, both with incised shape number 589.

Example with lighter blue cushion - restored crack running under tail and across one foot. Top is loose where it is fitted with a plaster fillet to the base. The example with darker blue cushion has a small chip to one tassle, otherwise in good condition.
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.

A similar example is illustrated in Joan Jones, Minton, The First Two Hundred Years of Design and Production, p. 148.