A set of six George II mahogany side chairs possibly Irish, circa 1735

with shell-carved top-rails and vases splats, drop-in polychrome needlework covered seats and cabriole legs carved with shells, joined by a stretcher, on ball and claw feet

Overall these chairs are in good condition. There are four repaired breaks to the top-rails including one with a strengthening metal bracket attached to the reverse. The colour is very dark and untouched. The patina is good. The needlework has some minor wear and some repaired areas, but stable and usable. A very nice set of chairs.
"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."

The present chairs with their scallop shell carving to the top-rail and legs are of a form  associated with chairs known to be Irish, of the same period. For comparison, closely related are a set of chairs of similar form including very similar shell-carving, thought to have been made for Sir Thomas Taylour (1686-1757) of Ireland which subsequently passed by descent to the Marquesses of Headfort, Headfort House, Co. Meath, Ireland and subsequently sold by their descendants, Christie`s London, 13th November 1997, lot 120.  The present chairs also relate in form and share some constructional similarities, such as pegging to the legs, with a pair of chairs which have a provenance of Abbeville, Malahide, Co. Dublin, Ireland and which were sold Christie`s London, 11th November 1999, lot 172.