Gustav Stickley

lantern model no. 205 1/2

Private Northeast Family Collection
Michael Carey Gallery, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner, early 1990s

The Craftsman, July 1906, pp. 541-542 (for a related seven-light electrolier ensemble and a related three-light electrolier)
Stephen Gray and Robert Edwards, eds., Collected Works of Gustav Stickley, New York, 1981, p. 149 (for the lantern model)
Stephen Gray, The Early Work of Gustav Stickley, New York, 1987, pp. 149 (for the above related seven-light electrolier ensemble) and 162 (for a related three-light electrolier)

Overall very good condition. All elements of the electrolier (beam, canopies, chains, lanterns and glass) appear to be original together from the period. The mounting beam retains its original finish, which presents with rich brown coloration. The wood with scattered surface scratches, abrasions, and some expected minor edge losses consistent with age and use. The beam was recently sensitively restored by a professional Arts & Crafts conservator to repair 8 later screw holes that were made at some point in the history of the piece. These holes have been inlaid with very well-matched period chestnut. Five of the original screw holes have been similarly repaired and are functional and stable. The copper surfaces with scattered minor surface scratches, abrasions, light surface soiling, and traces of oxidation to the recessed contours consistent with age and use. The upper surface of the outer edge of the hood of one lantern with a small area of residue measuring approximately 1 inch long. The chains with some minor corrosion throughout. The glass shades remit a soft warm amber light. The glass surfaces with some occasional extremely fine surface scratches consistent with age and use, and with some scattered minute air bubbles and particulate inclusions inherent in the making and not visually detractive. The edges of the shades with some expected extremely minor fleabites. The chandelier retains its 12 original bolts, 9 of which were shortened at some point in the history of the piece. The chandelier is accompanied by 12 new bolts that match the aesthetic of the original bolts. Each lantern with a later pull chain; a few of the pull chains missing their acorn terminals. An extremely rare form with elegant proportions and lyrical lines, retaining all of its original components.
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 present lot retains its original chestnut beam and is one of only two known extant examples of this exceedingly rare model.