Donald Deskey

C.C. Johnson and Edith Spink, St. Louis, MO
Acquired from the estate of the above by the present owner, 2011

David A. Hanks and Jennifer Toher, Donald Deskey:  Decorative Designs and Interiors, New York, 1987, p. 9
J. Stewart Johnson, American Modern 1925-1940:  Design for a New Age, New York, 2000 (for a related cigarette box from the collection of John C. Waddell)

Overall very good original condition. The sides of the box presents with a slightly more orange red hue when viewed in person than in the catalogue illustration. The painted surface throughout presents with minor discoloration, surface scratches, abrasions and some scattered chips and losses concentrated to the immediate edge and corners, consistent with gentle handling and age and visible in the catalogue illustration. The red painted sides of the box with a few scattered isolated discolorations and minor surface stains, and the edges with light darkening to the coloration likely the result of handling. The applied paper on the top with some minor rubbing and light discoloration. The paper with three minor edge losses at the lower border, visible in catalogue illustration, the longest one measuring approximately 1 3/8 in. length and two other more minor losses at both proper left corners of the paper. The interior of the box is not painted and is in good condition with minor surface discoloration along the edges. The underside of the box with some isolated dents minor surface dirt and some shallow surface scratches, consistent with gentle use. The present lot is a very rare offering and one of the very few known extant examples of this wonderful and intricate design encapsulating the modern aesthetic of the period. ---
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.

The iconography Deskey chose to portray recounts a "night on the town'' in New York City, similar in subject to the “Jazz” bowl series later designed by Viktor Schreckengost in 1931.  Neon signs of Times Square and towering skyscrapers reference the city’s evolution and capture the vibrant energy and speed of the era.