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A GEORGE II MAHOGANY SOFA, PROBABLY IRISH, MID-18TH CENTURY |
Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 GBP
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Description
- 135cm. wide, 4ft. 5in.
the shaped rectangular padded back with eagle-head terminals to the arms on shell-capped cabriole legs and pad feet
Provenance
The Property of a Gentleman, Christie's London, 6 July 2000, lot 34
Condition
In overall good restored condition. Frame sound and sturdy although seat rails with evidence of historic worm damage and there are corresponding restorations throughout including re-gluing and tightening of joints. Upholstery in good condition. Generally, with typical old marks, scuffs and scratches notably to one eagle armrest. Good colour and carving.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
The shell-carved knee and eagle-headed terminals to the armrests on the present sofa achieved near universal popularity in the second quarter of the 18th century. A result of the gradual evolution in furniture design these motifs are imbued with neo-paladian symbolism. The eagle head is symbolic of Jupiter, supreme ruler of gods and mortals, whilst the shell is emblematic of Venus, goddess of love and beauty. For a related sofa in walnut, with similar eagle-headed terminals, see that offered Sotheby's New York, 5 April 2006, lot 417.