A PAIR OF LIÈGOIS ROCOCO CARVED OAK FAUTEUILS CIRCA 1740

Recently restored; stable and ready to place. New upholstery in great condition. Some restorations and patches possibly for previous breaks to the joins of stiles with crest rail. Back rails partially rerailed. One back leg with a large spliced patch. One chair with part of the apron later carved. Usual restorations, chips and nicks consistent with use and age.
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.

Furniture from Liège, a wealthy bishopric between Flanders and Germany, is often classified as being in a regional style, implying that it is lesser than furniture from Paris, the center for culture and style. This pair of chairs, with the snakes spiraling up the back stiles and the dynamic naturalistic carving, exemplifies what makes Liège furniture so exciting and unique- and far from provincial. A Liège side chair with similar snake-twisted stiles is in the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris.