Sold for $8,820

Sold prices are inclusive of Buyer’s Premium

Lot Description

A George II Walnut Armchair

Circa 1740

Height 37 1/2 x width 24 1/2 x depth 23 1/2 inches.

This lot is located in Chicago.

Provenance:
The Swaythling Heirlooms, no. 473

Norman Adams Ltd., London, 2 March 1983 (with invoice)

Note:
This refined walnut armchair was part of the renowned collection formed by Samuel Montagu, 1st Baron Swaythling (1832-1911). Born Montagu Samuel to Orthodox Jews in Liverpool, he was known as Samuel Montagu by 1853 when he founded a merchant banking company that specialized in foreign exchanges. A prominent philanthropist active in Jewish causes, he was elected as a Liberal Member of Parliament in 1885 by which time his bank was so successful that it was noted that “for all practical purposes it was as good as the Rothschild's."

Montagu also followed in the Rothschild’s footsteps as he was an active and voracious collector. The interiors of Townhill Park, Hertfordshire, the home of his son and heir Louis Montagu, 2nd Baron Swaythling (1869-1927) included a vast array of works he had acquired. Townhill had been extensively remodeled in the early 20th century with gardens by Gertrude Jeckyll and it was lavishly illustrated in Country Life in 14 and 21 April 1923. The chair was photographed in the music room (reproduced here) but the image was apparently unused in the April 14th issue. A year later, part of Samuel Montagu’s collection was offered in a series of sales at Christie’s, London, from 6-8 May 1924 and in addition to the present lot, included books, a notable collection of silver, other furniture, and pictures.

Photo Credit: Swaythling Armchair, Townhill Park from Country Life, 14 April 1923: Future Publishing Ltd.

Condition Report

Seat height 18 inches. The seat sagging, needing its webbing replaced. Needlepoint later; stable, but with losses to the ground. The crest rail possibly replaced. Little shrinkage around its shoe. One arm has been re-enforced. Arm supports joined to the seat rail with dowels, but not from a repair, from construction. Claw and ball feet later carved out, now with casters. Later back brackets to the back legs.

This item is located for pick-up in Chicago.

Condition reports are available upon request. All lots are sold “as is,” in the condition they are in at the time of the auction. The physical condition of lots can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration. Prospective buyers are strongly advised to inspect a lot personally or through a knowledgeable representative prior to bidding. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Prospective buyers must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction, and it is the responsibility of the buyer to ensure that they have requested, received and considered any condition report.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

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