Thomas Molesworth

Commissioned by Alex Hubner for Indian Head Ranch, Cody, Wyoming, circa 1937
Fighting Bear Antiques, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Overall in very good condition. A labor intensive design, these three-seat sofas were executed only by special commission. The large knotty burls on the front supports of the sofa are of exceptional size and rarity. Further accented by fringe, brass detailing and two tone leather, the sofa is a tour-de-force within the early production of Molesworth's Shoshone Furniture Company. Originally designed for Indian Head Ranch, Wyoming, the sofa was intended to pair with the console table and burled fir table lamp offered in this auction (lot 7 and lot 19). There are natural knots, irregularities and separations in the wood grain, typical for Inland fir, and this has been reinforced with wood infill in a few areas by Molesworth at the time of production. The wood surfaces present with minor and scattered scuffs, scratches, nicks, abrasions, and with surface soiling concentrated to the recesses of the design, all consistent with age and gentle use. The proper right front foot with a minor loss (approximately ¾ x 3/8 in). The leather is original and in generally very good condition. There are a few areas of aged faint scratches and scuffs and overall the leather shows signs of faint craquelure and rubbing, particularly to front edges and piping details throughout. The leather trim to both arms each missing a few tassels, as partially visible in the catalogue illustration. The three back cushions are all fixed, while the three seat cushions are all removable. The brass tacks with some minor surface scratches and areas of rubbing, not visually distracting and consistent with age and gentle use. The black fabric liner on the underside of the sofa has been removed. This lot is offered together with three contemporary seat cushions in a similar leather hue. Please speak with a member of the department for further photos. Overall an exceptional and rare work by Molesworth, enhanced by thoughtful and creative details such as brass medallions on the arms, leather fringe, two tone supple leather, and expressive knotty burls.
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.