Donald Deskey

Alastair Duncan, American Art Deco, New York, 1986, p. 48
David A. Hanks and Jennifer Toher, Donald Deskey:  Decorative Designs and Interiors, New York, 1987, p. 22 (for the model exhibited in the Man's Smoking Gallery of the American Designers' Gallery, an exhibition organized by Paul Frankl in 1928)

The original octagonal Vitrolite top shows moderate wear with surface scratches and abrasions throughout the piece, and minor chips to the edges. The legs with heavy wear to the original finish, as seen in the catalogue photograph. These losses which are mostly to the exterior side are not quite as noticeable in person as seen under the direct lighting of the photo set. The base has losses and pitting to the finish. Overall, the present state of the finish is not at all unappealing in person. All screws appear to be original, although ultimately impossible to assertion with any degree of certainty.
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.