A matched pair of Regency mahogany metamorphic library chairs, circa 1815, after a design by Morgan & Sanders

one with squab leather cushion, the steps of one with later leather inset, the other lined with carpet, minor variations in height and carving 

carpet lined example: Sotheby's London, 5 June 2007, lot 219

The chair with carpet lined steps is faded to the right hand side. With multiple old marks chips and scratches throughout commensurate with age and use. The other chair with later leather lined steps has significant sun damage throughout. Also with multiple chips and scratches commensurate with age and use. The caning to both chairs is possibly later.
"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 armchairs follow 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 particular 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.)