Paire de chaises de théâtre "à l'Antique" en bois polychrome de la fin de l’époque Directoire

en bois mouluré, sculpté et laqué polychrome, le dossier carré à côtés en triangle surmonté de palmettes et sculpté de rais de coeur, la ceinture à motif de rosaces, reposant sur des pieds évasés ; recouverts de crin vert

Ancienne collection du duc de Talleyrand au château de Valençay

The illustration of the catalogue is accurate despite a little too bright. Good overall condition despite the inevitable scratches and marks due to age, use and handling. As visible on the illustration, there are some chips and some wear to the paint, especially on the feet. There is a few minor restorations to the carving. A few minor and old traces of woodworm. Both constructions are firm and sound. The upholstery is in good condition. Highly decorative model.
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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Le château féodal de Valençay, datant du XIII^e siècle, fut rasé au cours de la Renaissance, et un nouveau château fut bâti. Celui-ci traversa relativement sans encombre le XVII^e siècle, et fut modifié une nouvelle fois à partir de 1766, prenant ainsi son aspect définitif.

Après la Révolution, sous l’influence du 1^er Consul, Napoléon Bonaparte, Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord (1754-1838), ministre des Relations Extérieures, se porta acquéreur de « quelques terres », dont le château de Valençay dans l’Indre. En 1803, Valençay fut utilisé comme résidence forcée des Princes d’Espagne, et c’est à cette époque que le théâtre fut construit, certainement par un élève des frères Adam, les célèbres décorateurs écossais.

Nos sièges sont traités dans un pur style « antique » qui est en particulier à rapprocher des dessins de Thomas Hope nettement influencés par Piranèse. Ces chaises ont conservé leurs couleurs d’origine, et forment ainsi un très rare témoignage de ce goût « à l’étrusque » si en vogue sous le Directoire, le Consulat et l’Empire que des ornemanistes comme Dugourc ont largement diffusé.