A set of six Italian carved giltwood fauteuils, Genoa, mid-18th century

each with a cartouche shaped padded back above down-scrolled arms and serpentine padded seat, the moulded frame carved with foliage and rocaille on cabriole legs, upholstered with embroidered red velvet

These attractively carved armchairs are in reasonable condition, with marks and scratches consistent with age and use, and minor traces of old woodworm which appears to be no longer active. There are overall chips and losses to the gilt surface, again consistent with age and use, the gilding itself being worn in places, especially on the armrests, and having acquired a lovely patina. There are overall construction cracks on the joints. Although overall of sound construction, there is some movement to the armrests, especially to the left arm of one. One armchair with the left armrest broken and repaired; another chair with and incipient but safe crack to the top of the backrest frame; one other chair with two repaired breakages to the left arm; finally, another chair with old repairs to the top of the backrest frame. The original silk velvet and applique in distressed condition, with the velvet worn to foundation; faded and lacking.
"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."

Inspired by the French fauteuil à la Reine of the Louis XV period, these armchairs are an example of the great quality achieved by Genoese artisans towards the mid-18th century. 

A related set of armchairs was sold Sotheby's New York, 8-9 December 2011, lot 316, while further comparable pairs of armchairs include one made for Louise-Elisabeth, Duchess of Parma, at the Reggia di Colorno, and sold these rooms, 4 July 2012, lot 19 (£37,500), and one from a private Milanese collection, also these rooms, 28 October 2014, lot 268 (£22,500). This model is also found in the Royal Palace, Genoa (illustrated in A. Gonzáles-Palacios, Il Mobile in Liguria, Genoa, 1996, p. 188 & pl. 26).

The original Genoese silk velvet and applique is a rare survivor and was made specifically for this set of chairs.