A massive Ceylonese carved ebony and caned armchair, Sri Lanka, Galle District, mid-19th century

with scrolled and acanthus carved decoration, the front cabriole legs and outswept rear legs ending in brass cappings and castors

Probably acquired by Susan Georgiana Ramsay, Marchioness of Dalhousie (1817-1853)

The hardwearing nature of the timber used for this magnificent chair means the carving is exceptionally crisp and in good order. There is evidence of some old 'estate' screw repairs, though these are possibly contemporary to the construction of the chair. There are some chips and loses to the carved detail, notably the toes, which are now fixed with castors. The castors are very stiff and don't move easily. There is a large whole to the caned seat which will require restoration. minor old marks and scratches consistent with age and use.
"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 stat.mes nt made by Replica Shoes '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 a letter to her daughter Lady Susan Ramsay, dated 1852, Lady Dalhousie remarks 'Papa has told me to order any Ebony furniture I may take a fancy to at Galle, they carve very pretty things there. I intend that what I order should be for Papa's room at the Castle (Dalhousie)'. Tragically, Lady Dalhousie never saw the pieces she commissioned in their intended home, as she died the following year on the voyage home to Scotland.

For a related carved ebony armchair see Amin Jaffer, Furniture from British India and Ceylon, London, 2001, p. 378, fig. 186.