A PAIR OF HUANGHUALI HORSESHOE-BACK ARMCHAIRS (QUANYI) QING DYNASTY, 17TH /18TH CENTURY

the curved five segment toprail of each extending beyond the front corner posts and terminating in outscrolled handgrips above shaped spandrels, the slightly bowed splat flanked by beaded and shaped flanges and carved with a ruyi head-form medallion enclosing a coiled chilong, the soft mat seat supported underneath by two bowed transverse stretchers, set into the rectangular molded edge frame tapering with a central groove and beaded edge, above vigorously shaped and beaded spandreled aprons similarly carved on the front and sides with confronting pairs of chilong, the legs of rounded section joined by stepped stretchers and the footrest above a plain apron (2)

There is general consolidation to the joinery with fill and patch repairs. The underside appears to be re-surfaced indicating that there may be replacement elements. There are traces of lacquer to underside of the arms and frame. The legs are bit uneven due to wear.
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.

The present pair of armchairs is unusual for the very lively carving of confronting dragons on the aprons and spandrels. For a related pair in the Hung collection, with similar carving along the aprons but the sides carved with scrolling tendrils, see Robert Hatfield Ellsworth, Nicholas Grindley and Anita Christy, Chinese Furniture, One Hundred Examples from the Collection of Mimi and Raymond Hung Collection, New York, 1999, pl. 15.