After King Tutankhamun's Golden Throne, 20th century

gilt-gesso and pine together with a framed photographic print and typed description of the throne, lacking a cobra head

Christie's, London, 14 July 1977, lot 157

This extraordinary chair is very finely worked. There is rubbing to the gilt decoration notably on the arms. There are losses to the paint decoration revealing the beech core timber. One of the serpent heads to the left side is lacking. One of the brass caps to one foot is detached. Both lion heads are loose. There are scuffs and old marks from use. There are some cracks to the gilt gesso surface at the joints. This is a very theatrical chair. Overall height: 103.5cm Overall width: 57cm
"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 discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in 1922 by Howard Carter was heralded as the archaeological discovery of the 20th century. Its influence was far reaching and felt keenly in everything from fashion to architecture, the stylised forms of ancient Egypt converging with the geometric Art Deco style seamlessly. The offered lot encapsulates this Zeitgeist and as the accompanying photographic print makes clear, even this reproduction of the Tutankhamun’s Golden Throne was a wondrous object in its own right and at the time of its creation 'One of Only Three Known Replicas'.