Richard Joseph Neutra

Mildred and Grant Beckstrand, Palos Verdes, CA
Thence by descent to the present owner

"The Romance of American Architecture," The Studio, vol. 19, 1941, p. 91 (for a brief discussion of the Beckstrand House)
"Architect:  Richard Neutra," Pencil Points, May 1943, pp. 34-40  (for photographs and a discussion of the Beckstrand House)
"Neutra Looks at Wood and Steel," Interiors, July 1943, pp. 20 and 22 (for photographs and a discussion of the Beckstrand House)

Overall very good original condition. This is a very rare work to appear on the market and has remained with the original family that commissioned the home from Neutra since its creation. This piece very much is emblematic of the design of the interior of the Beckstrand House and of Neutra's design ideology. The desk was originally installed int he home flush to the built in elements, so one side of the desk (the proper right exposes unfinished wood to the side. This was part of the design and not a result of condition The materials used and overall aesthetic are purposely minimal and selected based on function. The surfaces of the desk present with minor surface scratches, edge nicks and rubbing consistent with gentle use. When viewed in person, it is evident that the previous owners approached the use of the desk with care. The proper right corner of the desk top with some minor separation at the joint of the linoleum panels, easily restored should one wish. The lower portion of the drawer case and feet with minor surface discolorations, surface scratches and edge nicks consistent with use. The chromium-plated metal elements with some minor wear and running. This work is a true epitome of the unique aesthetic of Richard Neutra and a very rare piece to appear on the auction market from a commissioned interior sold on behalf of the original family .
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.

This desk was designed by Richard Neutra for the interior of the Beckstrand House, one of three projects completed for the family.  Eclectic and intensely philosophical, Neutra sought to define American modernism in his architecture.  His residential projects blended Bauhaus rationality with a profound environmental consciousness.  By the end of the 1940s, Neutra had established himself as a leading residential architect, and his work became further recognized as he appeared on the cover of the August 15, 1949 issue of Time Magazine.  The present lot is an example of Neutra’s brand of modernism:  economy in design through simplicity in line and material, paired with an awareness of function within the greater environment.