Thomas Molesworth

with two reversible cushions on each chair and one reversible cushion on each ottoman

Fighting Bear Antiques, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This lot contains a pair of chair and pair of ottomans, all of which are in very good original condition. There are natural knots, irregularities and separations in the wood grain, typical for Inland fir, and this has been reinforced with wood infill in areas by Molesworth at the time of production. A few of these areas of inlay with minor scattered losses; the most marked located to the proper front left foot of one of the chairs (approximately 1 ¼ x 1/8 in) as well as at the upper edge of the proper right vertical pole of the other chair (approximately 1 ⅜ x ⅛ in.). The wood surfaces of all pieces with minor scattered scuffs, scratches, dents, and minor areas of rubbing, consistent with age and gentle use. The wooden surfaces of both ottomans with scattered marks, more prominently to one ottoman with areas of pencil markings, none visible when the ottoman is presented with its cushions. The seat and back cushions are reversible, with original Chimayo wool weavings on one side and the original leather on the other. The wool in good, clean condition, with some fading throughout to both sets of seat and back cushions, likely from sun exposure and as partially visible in the catalogue illustration. The original leather surfaces with scattered areas of rubbing, wear, faint scuffs. The leather piping of the seat, back, and ottoman cushions with some more prominent rubbing and wear, most pronounced in the top edge of one of the ottoman cushions, as visible in the catalogue illustration. The same cushion with some wear and minor craquelure from dryness to the center of the leather surface. One back cushion with marked wear to the upper leather straps, one edge of which has been sensitively stabilized. The brass tacks are all original with some minor areas of rubbing, consistent with age. An exceptionally rare pairing of club chairs with matching ottomans, this set is in very good, age appropriate condition. The supple green leather, in conjunction with the knotty burls and vibrant Chimayo weavings make this an exceptional example of Molesworth's club chair design.
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.
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.