A SUITE OF FOUR LOUIS XV CARVED GILTWOOD ARMCHAIRS, CIRCA 1750 |

carved with ribonned rushes, shells and acanthus leaves, upholstered with almond green damask; (regilt)

Former collection of comte and comtesse Georges de Castellane, then of comtesse Diane de Castellane at the hôtel de Castries, Paris,
sold Sotheby's, Monaco, 9 December 1995, lot 64

Illustration is quite accurate. As stated in the catalogue, the seats were previously regilt. There are inevitable chips to the gesso on the edges and on the more exposed areas. Otherwise, condition is very good, construction is sound and sturdy, and upholstery in good condition as well. Unusual and attractive design, beautiful proportions and aristocratic provenance. To recommend.
"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."

In 1923, the comte Georges de Castellane, the younger son of the famous "Boni", married the beautiful Florinda Fernández y Anchorena, rich heiress of one of the most illustrious families in Argentina. The couple settled in 1936 at 72 rue de Varenne, Paris, in the magnificent hôtel de Castries. Having incomparable taste and refinement, the comte and the comtesse de Castellane redecorated the townhouse ground floor which opened onto a splendid garden and rendered it one of the most sought-after residences among Parisian high society. The showcase for this unique collection was the salon bleu with its white and gilt wood paneling, comprising the set of armchairs we are presenting, a Naderman harp, Georges Jacob furniture, Jacques Caffieri wall lights and pastels by Jean-Baptiste Perronneau. The furniture and artworks collected by the comte and the comtesse Georges de Castellane at the hôtel de Castries were passed onto their daughter Diane and were the subject of a momentous auction in 1995 organized by Sotheby's in Monaco.