A Victorian upholstered and turned satin birch armchair, mid-19th century, possibly by James Mein

with turned front legs and square rear legs ending in brass castors

In country house condition. The upholstery is tired and split in areas and will need attention. One arm is lacking the brown cover exposing an earlier upholstery. The satin birch legs have some minor scuffs and chips but are sturdy and in good condition. Possibly one of several birch chairs described in Newbattle Abbey, Midlothian, Inventory, 1901, p.15, e.g. in the Night Nursery, 'Birch easy chair in green Coburg & chintz slip'.
"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 proximity of Monteviot House and Newbattle Abbey to Kelso based cabinet-maker and upholsterer James Mein strongly supports an attribution to his firm. For related examples of satin birch furniture by Mein see Christie's, Floors Castle, Kelso, Roxburghshire, 17 September 1990, lots 133-149.