ALBERTO GIACOMETTI | Masque aux serpents sconce

plaster and metal

Galerie de France, Paris, acquired by the present owner circa 1986-1987

Léopold Diego Sanchez, Jean-Michel Frank, Paris, 1997, cover and p. 239
Pierre-Emmanuel Martin-Vivier, Jean-Michel Frank, l'étrange luxe du rien, Paris, 2006, pp. 198 and 250

Good overall condition. The plaster presents with a few light scratches and some instances of light abrasions to the finish. The surface presents with some irregularities, inherent to the making. The back of the sconce presents with some small paint stains and with a circular stain. There is a small chip of plaster at the back of the sconce, around the fixing element, not visually distractive. An area on the interior of the sconce, right below the forehead, presents with a network of craquelures to the plaster and multiple small losses, not visible when the sconce is set. All consistent with age and use. This sconce has been restored under the supervision of the Giacometti Committee. Some scratches and scuffs, mostly concentrated to the face, have been filled. Two previously missing elements have been re-created : one on the upper, proper right snake tip - the other on the lower, proper right snake tip. The surface was covered with spellac at a later time in the history of the piece. This spellac has now been removed but there are still some remnants in the recessed areas. This sconce is not electrified. This lot is sold with a later metal stand.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This lot is sold with a certificate from the Alberto and Annette Giacometti Foundation and will be recorded in the Alberto Giacometti Database (AGD) under the number 4100. This lot has been restored under the supervision of the Giacometti Foundation.