An Italian lacquer a mecca throne armchair, Sicilian circa 1735

with a cartouche-shaped padded back above downscrolled arms and padded seat on cabriole legs joined by an x–form stretcher terminating in scrolled feet, the whole carved with flowers, leaves, stylised scallopshells and winged cherub masks

Joints sound and sturdy. Old minor marks, chips and scratches commensurate with age. Some very minor losses to the carving, e.g. the top of the cresting as visible from photograph. Some minor surface dirt which would benefit from a light clean according to taste. There has been some strengthening of the projected carving at the sides of the back on the reverse, but this does not detract from the piece. Evidence of old worm which appears to be no longer active. The rear right leg has a restored break. The stretcher has been strengthened. The left arm, when facing has had a restoration at the rear but this has been well executed and is hardly noticeable. In overall good conserved condition.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
E. Colle, Il Mobile Barocco in Italia, Arredi e Decorazioni d'Interni dal 1600 al 1738,  Milan, 2000, pp. 44-45.
M. Giarrizzo, A. Rotolo, Mobili e Mobilieri nella Sicilia del settecento, Palermo, 1992, p. 71, plate 9.

Colle, op. cit., illustrates pp. 44-45, various Sicilian throne armchairs carved with winged female masks, the most similar one to the present example reproduced here in fig.1.
Also see one illustrated by Giarrizzo, op. cit.,  p. 71, plate 9,  now in the Museo Regionale Pepoli, Trapani, Sicily, reproduced here in fig. 2.