A pair of George II style upholstered armchairs with specially commissioned loose covers in printed 'Chatsworth Rosebud' fabric, circa 1985

of typical form and with stained beech cabriole front legs

The pretty fabric which covers these armchairs was produced by Warners copying antique fabric found at Chatsworth.

This was not the first time that Chatsworth linen stores yielded fabric which went on to inspire designers or was copied by them. The Duchess writes (Chatsworth, The House, London, 2002, p. 226). 'In 1985 Laura Ashley, then at the height of her fame, was brought here by a mutual friend. She was fascinated by the little bundles of chintzes and silks neatly tied with ribbons and put away in one of the cupboards by a housekeeper of yore. Laura took a number of them and in due course they were copied in her factory. There was great satisfaction in going into her shops and seeing rolls of the prettiest cottons imaginable sold to appreciative customers and knowing that the original came out of that grubby old cupboard.'

Feet with old marks and scratches. Cotton loose covers tired (notably the arms) and would benefit from a professional clean.
"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."