A set of Directoire mahogany and ebony inlaid armchair and a pair of side chairs attributed to Georges Jacob circa 1800

the slightly curved paneled top rail inlaid with griffins flanking an orb on a pedestal

Étude Couturier Nicolay, Paris

The armchair in good restored condition. The surface has been re-polished and there are cracks to the varnished surface notably to the inlaid tablet to the backrest. There are areas of colouring to the filler to the veneer. With some minor filet repairs to the veneer, notably above the left arm and to the floral inlaid tablet. The side chairs with similar areas of minor filler to the veneer. One with a repaired crack to the rear right leg of one, the same type of repair is visible to the other chair on the rear left leg. All three may benefit from cleaning according to taste and have evidence of old marks and scratches commensurate with age and use.
"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 distinctive griffins motifs and the pierced and carved splat are inspired by Georges Jacob’s “gout étrusque” developed by the great menuisier in 1790-95. Ebony-inlaid griffins are found on a suite of seat furniture by Jacob sold Artcurial, 9 June 2015, lot 63.