A set of six Chinese Chippendale style mahogany dining chairs, late 19th/early 20th century

each with various inventory labels and ivorine trade label for D. SHERRATT & Co / 61 Bridge Street Row Chester

Almost certainly acquired by William Lever, 1st Viscount Leverhulme (1851–1925) from D. Sherratt & Co, Chester, between 1897 and 1904, by which date they are in the Dining Room and Cloakroom at Thornton Manor (TM.Inv, 1904, p.2, annotated '423'' £180), transferred to the 1st floor landing by 1907 (TM.Inv, 1907, p.45, and TM.Inv, 1912-13, TM423, p.47);
William Hulme Lever, 2nd Viscount Leverhulme (1888–1949), in the Entrance Hall at Thornton Manor in 1949 (T.Inv. T151-156, labelled, although not located in the inventory)

Overall in reasonable condition. The back splats have minor breaks to the Chinese style decoration throughout notably to the top right of one chair and the top left of one other chair. One chair is missing a spandrel and one other chair has a break to the lower join of the spandrel to the leg. There are minor restorations to the breaks throughout which have secured the chairs. One chair lacking a piece of the splayed decoration to the top cresting which may benefit from professional attention. Some old marks and scratches commensurate with age and use. The upholstery is slightly distressed as to be expected but is secure.
"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."

Conceived in the Chinese manner, their stylized pagoda crestings rising above Chinese open palings in the form of an arched perspective ornamented with further pagodas, and supported on cluster column legs simulated bamboo, these chairs are closely related to a number of other 18th century suites of seat furniture designed in this manner. The present chairs were supplied by D. Sherratt & Co. From whom Lord Leverhulme acquired a number of pieces between 1897 - 1916.