A PAIR OF HUANGHUALI BARREL-SHAPED STOOLS QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

each modelled in the form of a barrel, the circular top resting on a shaped apron extending into four curved legs bulging near the centre of the stool, all resting on a shaped ring base supported on four trefoil pad feet, the edges of the top frame and ring base bordered with studded bosses, the patina of a warm honey-brown colour accented with an attractive grain

Compagnie de la Chine et des Indes, Paris, 25th April 1990.

The two stools are generally in good condition. Some sections have been replaced including the two circular tops which were originally made in rattan, as well as at least two and probably several other of the ruyi-shaped feet as can be expected for this type of stools. A curved section of one of the lower rail on one stool also bears a different patina / grain and is likely to also be a later replacement. Overall the pair remains extremely attractive and in excellent presentation‎ state.
"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."

See a similar pair of huanghuali stools in the collection of the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture, illustrated in Wang Shixiang and Curtis Evarts, Masterpieces from the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture, Hong Kong, 1995, pl. 19, where Wang compares them with a Ming-dynasty zitan drum stool in the Chengde Palace.