Armand Albert Rateau

en suite with the previous and following lot
fitted with a folding bookstand

Bedroom of Madame Thérèse Rateau, wife of the artist, 17 quai de Conti, Paris, circa 1932
Vallois, Paris
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Franck Olivier-Vial & François Rateau, Armand Albert Rateau, Paris, 1992, pp. 188-189 (for the present lot illustrated)

Overall good condition consistent with age and use. The silver leaf is beautifully rendered with geometric patterns and vegetal motifs on three sides, with scattered rubbing, craquelure, nicks, scuffs, scratches, some localized staining and some discoloration throughout. Some wear to the silvering revealing the black lacquer and white gesso, with further scattered chips and losses to the gesso throughout. Some areas have been professionally and sensitively retouched in a silver finish, and a few areas of gesso are slightly loose. A thin drawer pulls out and reveals a convertible book stand, a unique feature of this lot. This feature is shown in the associated period photo of Madame Rateau's bedroom, as illustrated in the catalog. The tray which holds the book rest with a split running horizontally appears stable and measures approximately 7 ½ in, and a few minor losses to the corner of the frame surrounding the bookrest. Minor oxidation to the pulls, and two are slightly bent. The slate top with minor scattered chips to the outer edges, a few nicks to the surface and traces of adhesive which could be removed. The glass panels have possibly been restored and present with a few minor scattered losses to the underside paint at the edges, not visually distracting. An important model with excellent provenance. For more detailed images of this lot, please contact the department.
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.