George Nakashima (1905 - 1990)

walnut, the free edges outlining the shape of the tree, with signature butterfly joints to top

Acquired directly from the artist

A highly impressive piece of excellent overall appearance. With minor old marks and scratches in places commensurate with use. Top with a few minor stains and watermarks. Some slight fading. Some gold paint to one central butterfly joint, circa 4cm. by 4cm. with some dots around. The top is secured to the base by a number of screws to supports to the underside, which could be undone to facilitate easier transportation, but it appears that the top is also glued to the base. A striking and practical piece, which is ready for display, by this increasingly sought-after craftsman. Documentation included with the table includes: Copy of client's letter proposing a dining service to match that made for Governor Nelson Rockefeller, dated 2 August 1988 Copy of reply from Marion Nakashima, dated 24 August 1988 Copy of client's request to schedule order, dated 15 October 1988 Original preliminary illustration of a tabletop timber, signed by George Nakashima, dated 25 October 1988 Copy of an accompanying letter from George Nakashima, dated 26 October 1988 Copy of client's letter confirming order, dated 4 November 1988 Original estimates for various options of wood choices with illustrations, signed by George Nakashima, dated 8 November 1988 Additional original illustrations, signed by George Nakashima, dated 8 November 1988 Copy of order confirmation, dated 9 November 1988 Copy of client's approval of order confirmation, undated Original illustration of final choices of tabletop timber, signed by Mira Nakashima, dated 20 March 1990 Copy of invoice, dated 28 April 1990.
"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."

To be sold with a file of the original correspondence between the vendor and Nakashima, to include sketches, invoices and letters.