Lot 113
  • 113

François-Xavier Lalanne

Estimate
300,000 - 500,000 USD
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Description

  • François-Xavier Lalanne
  • Hippopotamus Bar
  • impressed FxL/ LALANNE 2/8 and 85
  • patinated bronze

Provenance

Sotheby's New York, November 5, 1987, lot 238

Literature

Patrick D'Elme, "Histoire des Lalannes," Cimaise, January 1970, p. 61  (for a related example of a hippopotamus bathtub)
Pierre Restany, "Les Lalanne ou le Rêve à la Maison," Domus, January 1973, p. 38 (for a related example of a hippopotamus bathtub)
Les Lalannes, Musée National d'Art Moderne, Paris, 1975, pp. 74-75 (for a related example of a hippopotamus bathtub)
"News Report," Progressive Architecture, December 1978, pp. 28-29 (for a related example of a hippopotamus bathtub)
"Atelier Lalanne," Architectural Digest, February 1981, p. 116
Daniel Marchesseau, Les Lalanne, Paris, 1998, pp. 7,86
Claude & François-Xavier Lalanne, exh. cat., Paul Kasmin Gallery, New York, 2006, pp. 82-83

Condition

Overall in very good condition. The hippo bar has been outside and exposed to the elements and therefore the patination with some light unevenness which adds to the overall appearance of the work. The interior with some residue and light discoloration from being outside. Please see an additional image of the hippo open show on the online catalogue available for viewing on sothebys.com. The underside of the metal shelves are exceuted in wood, and with some losses and separation from the metal top surface at the corners, which is the result of being exposed to the elements. All the compartments open with ease and all of the interior fittings are intact. Surface dirt throughout. A superb example of the medium size bar configuration. The work has a superb presence in person and epitomizes the creative and surrealist aesthetic of the large scale works by François-Xavier Lalanne.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.