A Scottish late Victorian upholstered and carved walnut wing back armchair, attributed to Whytock, Reid & Co., Edinburgh, late 19th century

covered with green cotton on scrolled bracket legs united by a moulded stretcher ending in bun feet, with turned stretchers out swept rear legs

Almost certainly acquired by Charles Stuart Forbes Trefusis, 21st Baron Clinton and Lady Jane Stuart Forbes Trefusis (1863-1953) circa 1898.

Upholstery generally good although some frayed areas to seams. The walnut elements are good.
"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 library was designed by Sir Robert Lorimer (1864-1929) and completed in 1898. The furniture for it was probably supplied by Whytock & Reid in an appropriate historic style and this armchair could be a survivor of that commission as it references influences employed by both the architect designer and cabinet-makers.

The firm began in 1807 under the ownership of Richard Whytock; in 1876 a partnership was formed between John Reid and Richard's son Alexander forming Whytock, Reid & Co. From the end of the 19th Century to the 1930s the firm flourished under the guidance of Murray Reid (grandson of John), William Simpson, an excellent draughtsman and John Murray, a designer and skilled carver. It is however for their collaboration with Sir Robert Lorimer that they are often remembered. This partnership was particularly successful and the fruits of it included important commissions at Earls Hall, Fife, Marchmont, Berwickshire, and Monzie Castle, Perthshire amongst others. In 1919 the firm became known as Whytock and Reid.