A Regency metamorphic mahogany library armchair circa 1820, in the manner of Morgan and Sanders

the curved crest rail over scrolled arms flanking caned seat, reversing to become library steps, after the design published on Rudolph Ackermann's Repository of Arts

Apsley Estates, Hampshire.

This elegant chair is in a good restored condition, with nice colour, being ready to be placed. It has marks and scratches consistent with use and age and the leather cushion and the caning of the seat are not original but are in excellent condition. The lock mechanism and hinges are original. The back rest has been re-attached and has a repaired break on the right side, almost unnoticeable. The back rest corners have even wear, as expected, from its use in the steps position, as it is the rest that touches the floor. From this use, the left side has a tiny crack. The bottom step has a repaired crack, re-enforced by later blocks underneath. The steps surface has small dot marks throughout.
"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."

This armchair follows a design by the London firm of Morgan and Sanders, published in Ackermann`s Repository in July 1811. Morgan and Sanders were specialists in the manufacture of `metamorphic' furniture' of this kind and held the patent for this particualr model, which was known as the `Patent Metamorphic Library Chair', ( see G.B. Hughes, `Regency Patent Furniture', Country Life, 2 January 1958, pp. 10-12, and B Austen, 'Morgan and Sanders and the Patent Furniture Makers of Catherine Street', Connoisseur, vol. 187, no.753, November 1974, pp.180-191).

For comparison see Christie`s London, English Furniture and Clocks, 19th November 2009, lot 56, sold £22,000.