Johann Philipp Ferdinand Preiss

Bryan Catley, London, circa 1980
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Bryan Catley, Art Deco and Other Figures, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 1978, p. 283
Victor Arwas, Art Deco Sculpture, London, 1992, p. 172
Alberto Shayo, Ferdinand Preiss:  Art Deco Sculptor, Woodbridge, Suffolk, 2005, p. 174

Overall very good condition. The sculpture retains some of the bold and varied colors in the decorative portion of her costume that are original to the design of the piece. With some minor rubbing to the edges of her headpiece at the sides of her head and some rubbing possible to the front portion of her costume top. The ivory in the piece has acquired a beautiful patina and shows a few age cracks consistent with the natural aging process of the material. The largest extends across to the height of the torso portion of the sculpture and appears darkened because of surface residue. There is a small hairline crack to the top portion of the thigh of the bent leg, as well as a crack darkened by surface dirt and age to the armpit region of the proper right arm. An additional crack begins at the figures back of the proper left arm and extends to the figure's elbow. The base is in good condition and with one corner showing a small loss to the bottom edge. There is a small area of abrasion to reverse of the sculpture where the metal portion of the base meets the onyx base. This is minor only visible on close inspection of the reverse of the figure. The carving on this example is beautifully executed on this elegant and delicate figure. Due to the fragile nature of this sculpture, special handling and/or packing may be required during the shipping process. Please inquire directly with the 20th Century Design or Post Sale Services Departments if you have any questions or require assistance regarding the shipping of this item.
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.