RARE PAIR OF 18TH C. NEW YORK CHIPPENDALE WALNUT CHAIRS

Graceful, classically proportioned chairs having ram's horn scrolled end rails centered on shell carvings, heart and fleur-de-lis pierced splats, deep molded arched skirt with central inverted shell matching the rail, sturdy front cabriole legs having small scrolled brackets, aggressively carved shell knees, tapering sinuous legs ending in ball and claw feet, the back legs shaped, slip seats retaining 1920's ochre brocade, all but one original blocks are present. 17 1/2" seats, 40 1/2" backs, 23" x 19 1/2". Very good condition, one small inletted repair to ram's horn scroll top, rich warm wood patina. Marked "VII" and "VIII" on the top of the seat railing. Provenance: Purchased by Mrs. Silas W. Pettit in 1904. Descended through the family.