A set of eleven Dutch mahogany and satinwood marquetry side chairs, Van Doren, Brussels circa 1828

each with tablet toprail above a pierced rectangular back with vertical splat centred by a moulded roundel, inlaid with a ribbon-tied musical trophy, the padded seats covered in nailed oilcloth above the plain seat rails on multi-baluster legs; each stamped twice P.F. VANDOREN 1828; inv. no. L 349 (11)

Koning Willem II; Paleis Brussel; Paleis Het Loo

Paul Rem, Hofmeubilair, Negentiende-eeuwse meubelen uit de collectie van Paleis het Loo, Zwolle 2003, p. 55-56

Four in good condition, seven in reasonably good condition. One with right backrest with old restoration. Overall with minor old traces of woodworm. Minor old restorations to the veneer of the toprails of the backrests. With original upholstery which is in reasonably good condtion.
"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."

These elegant chairs were originally part of a much larger set of one-hundred-and-fifty chairs, which was commissioned for the Grand Galerie of the Palace in Brussels, the residence of the Prince of Orange, later King William II (reigned form 1840) and his consort Grand Duchess Anna Palowna of Russia (1795-1865).  Music played an important role in the Grand Galerie, which was also used as ball-room.  After the definite separation of Belgium in 1840, the chairs were shipped to Holland and part of the set was placed at the chapel of the Loo Palace . Four chairs are still in the collection of H.R.H. Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands.
The workshop of Van Doren, ébéniste de la Cour et de S.A.R. Le prince d' Orange, was situated at the Leuvenstraat in Brussels. In this period Van Doren furnished large quantities of exceptional rich pieces of furniture to the prince and to the court of his father King William I at Laken.