A Regency mahogany metamorphic library chair, circa 1810, attributed to Gillows after a design by Morgan and Saunders

the hinged seat with a catch to the reverse releasing the metamorphic action, with inset leather steps

In overall reasonable conserved condition. With a repaired break to the left upright. The leather upholstery is later. With old marks and scratches commensurate with age and use.
"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."

The design of this metamorphic armchair corresponds very closely to the design first published in Ackermann's Repository of Arts, July 1811 and captioned 'This ingenious piece of furniture is manufactured at Messrs' Morgan and Sander's, Catherine St. Strand' (P. Agius, Ackermann's Regency Furniture & Interiors, Marlborough, 1984, p. 60, pl. 29). This type of chair was 'considered the best and handsomest article ever yet invented, where two complete pieces of furniture are combined in one - an elegant and truly comfortable library chair and a set of library steps.'

A very similar chair also by Morgan and Sanders is in the collection of Trinity College, Oxford. (R. Edward and P. Macquoid, The Dictionary of English Furniture, London, rev. ed., 1954, vol. II p. 291, fig 15)