A Louis XIV carved giltwood tabouret, circa 1690

the shaped rectangular padded seat above tapering square legs carved with acanthus and foliage joined by a scrolled stretcher, on scrolled and foliate feet

This rare piece is in good conserved condition. The seat has been reupholstered. There are marks and scratches consistent with age and use and overall wear to the gilt surface, which would benefit from a light clean according to taste. Some faint construction cracks. One foot with a partial and secure break. Another foot with one small loss to the carving. The stretcher finial also displaying a secure construction crack.
"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."

This stool is one of a group of finely carved, late 17th century tabourets, eight of which, formerly in the collection of Sir John Fitzgerald, Bt., M.C., Knight of Kerry, were sold in two sets of four Christie's London, 8 December 1949, lot 101, and 24 November 1955, lot 43. More recently a pair was sold Christie's London, 6 December 1993, lot 155; another pair Christie's New York, 21 October 1997, lot 6; finally a single one sold Christie's London, 18 November 2010, lot 29.

Tabourets such as the present one played a crucial role within the etiquette of the French court under Louis XIV, when being able to sit in the presence of the royal family was a great honour, reserved to few members of the aristocracy - with only duchesses being automatically granted the privilege. In a much quoted passage from a letter to her daughter the Comtesse de Grignan, Madame de Sévigné (1626-1696) recounts one of many curious incidents centred on this courtly prerogative, which took place in front of the Queen: "Il vint ensuite bien des duchesses, entre autres la jeune Ventadour, très belle et jolie. On fut quelque moment sans lui apporter ce divin tabouret. Je me tournai vers le grand maître et je dis, 'Hélas! Qu'on le lui donne. Il lui coûte assez cher'. Il fut de mon avis."