An Italian carved giltwood armchair, Roman, circa 1780

with an oval padded back within a border of laurel leaves with similarly carved downscrolled arms and bowed padded seat, the seat-rail with ribbon-tied floral and laurel leaf swags suspending circular bosses on leaf carved fluted tapering legs and toupie feet

Joints are a bit unstable and would benefit from some minor attention. Construction cracks at joints which are normal and can be left. Evidence of old worm damage and restorations to backs. The gilding is worn in places especially on the arms. Evidence of old glue repairs where the legs join the seat rail. There are some scattered age cracks some of which have been touched up with gilt paint.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Alvar González-Palacios, Il Tempio del Gusto, Roma e il regno delle due Sicilie, Vol. II, Milan, 1986, p. 84, fig. 162.
Alvar González-Palacios, Fasto Romano, dipinti, sculture, arredi dai Palazzi di Roma, Rome, 1991.

Related Roman armchairs with neo-classical carvings and with similarly pierced backs are illustrated by A.G.P. Fasto Romano,  op. cit., p. 183, fig. 132 and A.G.P. Il Tempio del Gusto, op. cit., p. 84, fig. 162.

A virtually identical armchair in tones of gold and green with a bucranium on the back was sold Christie's, London, 16th December 1999,  lot 107.