A George III polychrome-painted torchère possibly to a design by James Wyatt circa 1780

re-decorated and restored

Partridge Ltd., London
Sold Sotheby's New York, January 22, 1999, lot 120
Stair & Co., New York

Redecorated and the piece is in good restored condition. This later resurface can be forgiven as it such an extraordinary thing. Some replaced details (and this is very likely due to its fragile nature) although difficult to discern due to re-decoration. Age crack to bottom tier, visible in the catalogue. Small abrasions to carving; bottom pineapple with a chipped leaf. Usual losses and wear to decoration but ready to place. The candle branches and pineapple to the lowest tier are removable. Very decorative.
"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."

This wonderful torchère, with its whimsical decoration, recalls an extraordinary pair of painted candle-stands from circa 1780 produced for a pair of alcoves in the dining room at Heveningham Hall, Suffolk. James Wyatt was commissioned between 1781-84 to design the interior for Sir Gerard Vanneck, 2nd Baronet (1743-1791). These also featured an extraordinary pineapple raised on a waisted elongated column. The Heveningham candle stands incorporated elaborate anthenniene bases, referencing antique forms, like the tripod support of the offered lot. See Ralph Edwards, The Dictionary of English Furniture, London, rev. ed. 1954, vol. 3, p. 153.