A set of four Victorian carved giltwood and cane rout chairs, circa 1890, by Morant & Co.

Louis XV style, with ovoid backs and serpentine seats and shell carved legs, the underside of each stamped 'MORANT & Co. 91 NEW BOND ST., LONDON, W.' together with a pair of Victorian giltwood and cane rout chairs, circa 1890, George III style and a single Victorian carved giltwood and cane rout chair, with a ribbon tied arched back above fluted spindles, losses and wear (7)

Acquired by Spencer Compton Cavendish, 8th Duke of Devonshire (1833-1908) or more likely his wife Louise, Duchess of Devonshire (1832-1911), for either the Ballroom at Devonshire House, London or one of the state rooms at Chatsworth

The single example illustrated in the Gold Drawing Room (now the Private Dining Room) at Chatsworth circa 1900.

Losses to gilding and wear throughout. White gesso and timbers exposed in places. The set of four are good quality. Cane punctured on two from this set. One of the pair with similar wear. Loss of seat on single example and loss to ribbon tied surmount as well as re-touching to gilt decoration.
"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 firm of Morant, Boyd & Morant was established in 1790 by George Morant (d.1846) at 88 New Bond Street, London. It continued to flourish and expand throughout the 19th century. By 1852 the firm had become known as Morant & Boyd with premises at 91 New Bond Street and by 1858 they had moved to 81 New Bond Street, becoming eventually Morant & Co. The business continued into the 20th century finally known as Lenygon & Morant.