A pair of carved giltwood and ivory painted gondola armchairs, probably Italian, early 19th century

each with an oval padded back, the straight padded armrests on swan supports ending in claw and ball feet, with back splayed legs, upholstered in green silk 

The illustration of the catalogue is accurate but the pair of armchairs is slightly less bright in reality. There are the inevitable dents, marks and scratches due to age and use. There are chips and rubbed areas to the gilding revealing the white gesso and the red bowl underneath, especially to the tops of both backrests. There are minute chips to the wood. There are old woodworms traces. There are some stains and some wears to the velvet. Each front feet has been reinforced with a wooden block. The back feet have been reinforced with nails under the seatrail. Rare pair of armchairs. Very elegant.
"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."