A Queen Anne black japanned chest on stand circa 1710

the interior later covered with a late18th/early 19th century hand painted paper

Probably acquired by Sir William Courtenay, 2^nd Bt. (1675 - 1735) and thence by descent.

Inventory 1880, probably the `painted chest' in the Marble Hall

A good decorative piece. The top carries old marks and scratches commensurate with age, with minor chips to each of the corners. The top may well have been decorated in a similar manner to front and sides of the chest. The decoration of the body of the chest is generally good. There are some minor chips to each side and one panel has an old split across its width as a result of it age. The finely-worked escutcheon is missing part of its upper left-hand side; otherwise in good condition with traces of old polish. The stand has elegant cabriole legs to the front and shaped, octagonal legs to the rear, all with wear commensurate with age including minor marks and chips. There are traces of old worm damage to the stand. Attractive craquelure to the base. The interior of the chest is lined with a charming, original late-eighteenth or early nineteenth-century lining paper.
"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."