A Pair of Irish George II Oversized Giltwood Canapés
Mid-18th Century
Height 43 1/2 x width 128 x depth 37 1/2 inches.
Property from the Estate of Michael L. Wilkie, Chicago, Illinois
Michael L. Wilkie (1941-2021) was the owner of one of the most renowned penthouses in both Chicago and the nation. Recently offered for sale for the first time in nearly fifty years, the penthouse occupies the entire top floor and roof terrace of 1500 Lake Shore Drive, which was built in 1927 by celebrated architect Rosario Candela.Wilkie, who grew up in Long Grove, Illinois as well as Montecito, California, played a critical role in expanding his family business, the DoALL Company, which came to include over 70 companies around the globe. His father, Leighton A. Wilkie, founded DoALL and invented the metal-cutting bandsaw, one of the most widely used tools in manufacturing today. Michael Wilkie worked for and ran the business for 60 years.

Photos courtesy of Andrew Miller and The Baines Group, Jameson | Sotheby's International Realty.

Seat height: 18 inches. Note: The canapés are likely 18th century and not 'Circa 1880' as originally catalogued. The gilt decoration is modern and very bright with some deliberately distressed areas along crest rail. The canapés appear in overall decent condition. The upholstery showing signs of wear in higher-usage areas but otherwise is largely intact. Both examples with sagging to cushion springs and some loose straps, would need to be reinforced prior to use. One back rest of canapé feels less secure to body, overall stable but might require additional reinforcement to prevent later damage. The same canapé with a loss to claw decoration on the front center-right foot. Both examples with loss to claw decoration on back left foot. Other canapé with an area of loss to back left pad food. Both examples have been reblocked on underside of frame. Most claw-feet with some restorations to claws. the tassel swag decoration on the apron having most tassels wither detached or replaced. One example with original decoration at far right side of front. Some other repairs likely but obscured by modern gesso/gilding. Additional images available upon request. 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.