Lot 101
  • 101

Neo-Egyptian

Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Salon suite, circa 1885
  • fruitwood
  • Sofa: 142 x 142 x 60 cm. (56 x 56 x 23 ¾ in.) stool: 45 cm. (17 ¾ in.) console: 285 x 145 x 27 cm. (112 ¼ x 57 x 10 ¾ in.) stand: 119 x 23 cm. (46 ¾ x 9 in.) shelf: 93 x 57.5 x 20 cm. (36 ¾ x 22 ¾ x 8 in.)
executed in Italy
ebonised fruitwood, gilt and polychrome highlights

Literature

Adriana Boidi Sassone ed., Le Mobilier du XVIIIe siècle à l'Art Déco, Cologne, Taschen-Evergreen, 2000, pp. 376-377 illustrated
Claudio Paolini ed., Il bello "Ritrovato", Gusto, ambienti, mobili dell'Ottocento, Novare, De Agostini, Istituto Geografico, 1990, p. 478 sofa illustrated
Jean-Marcel Humbert, L'Egyptomanie dans l'art occidental, Paris, ACR Edition, 1989, p. 140 sofa illustrated

Condition

In overall fair conserved condition. The area of main restorations applies to the wall applique which has a number of repairs to the top gallery and some of the bauble decoration. The stools and bench with small minor areas of conservation and retouching but in good original condition. The Stand and mirror are again in fair original condition. we recommend contacting a member of the department to review each piece in detail if required. The whole suite with typical signs of wear, scuffs and chips commensurate with age and use.
"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."

Catalogue Note

This extensive seven piece salon suite constitutes an interesting example of the eclectic taste of late 19th century in Europe, particularly rife in Italy. Sphinx, Osiris' chariot and harpists are here a means of evoking the fantasy of ancient Egypt whilst still aligning with the classical and comfortable form of occidental furniture.