A PAIR OF BLACK AND POLYCHROME LACQUER CONTINUOUS YOKEBACK ARMCHAIRS (NANGUANMAOYI) QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

each with a shaped top-rail, slightly flattened at the center, curving gently at the ends before being 'pipe jointed' to the slightly backward sloping cylindrical posts, centered by a wide S-shaped splat, set to either side by lively serpentine arm rails with everted ends pipe-jointed to the recessed shaped posts, the molded seat frame of typical miter, mortice and tenon frame construction retaining not only the original bowed transverse stretcher but also the soft matting seat, the legs joined at the top by a straight beaded apron continuing to long flange brackets in the front and standard beaded spandreled aprons on the sides and back and by a footrest and oval-section stretchers below, finished in black lacquer and painted with red and gold, the splat with a central stylized composition of bats suspending auspicious emblems and the sanduo, the frame with further bats flying amidst clouds (2)

Collection of Henry R. Luce III (1925-2005), New York.

The tips of all four feet of each chair slightly reduced indicating previous use of metal fittings. The back apron spandrel of one chair has been repaired with glue. The joinery has been consolidated. One arm of each chair is slightly loose. There are losses, flakes and chips to the lacquer and fading to original pigments with some added overpaint. The chairs retain an unusual amount of original lacquer and pigments, especially on the backs and inside of the legs.
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.