A George I walnut and burr walnut armchair circa 1730

back with a metal plaque inscribed with a coat of arms.

The Lesley and Emma Sheafer Collection, Bequest of Emma A. Sheafer, 1974

Leather with tears and losses, a large section completely detached. Seat rails not examined under upholstery. Crest of the back restored using one long element above two flanking corner pieces, joins visible in catalog photograph. Repair to arrmest support. Scratches and age cracks, surface dirt, discoloration and pitting throughout and patches on the back. Metal armorial plaque a later addition. Joints stable and very sturdy overall.
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.

This unusual chair form has a surprisingly low back and could be the English equivalent of the French coiffeuse, or a low back chair for doing one's hair. This chair form has also been suggested to be for writing or smoking. Examples are illustrated in Adam Bowett, Early Georgian Furniture, Suffolk, 2009, pg. 188. A chair with similar arms but with an upholstered back is illustrated Percy Macquoid, The Age of Oak and the Age of Walnut, Suffolk, 1987, fig. 184b.