Serge Mouille

DeLorenzo 1950, New York

Bernard Champigneulle, “Les Décorateurs Travaillent Pour La Jeunesse,” Art & Décoration, No. 41, 1954, p. 17 (for a similar example of the seven-branch variant at the Salon des Artistes Décorateurs, 1954)
Ensembles Mobiliers, Paris, 1955, pl. 2
Pierre Émile Pralus, Serge Mouille:  A French Classic, Paris, 2006, p. 192

Overall in excellent condition showing only minor signs of wear. The black painted shades and arms with minor surface scratches as would be expected with use. The white painted interiors of the shades with discoloration and minor scratches. The cap with scratches and minor dents. The ceiling light is electrically sound and currently wired for American use. When installed in the Stewart residence an additional circular black metal ceiling plate was added. This element is not shown in the catalogue illustration, but will be sold with the item.
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.

This example of the “Araignée” ceiling light contains “Godet” reflectors, which are hammered in a triangular form.  The bent arms and adapted shades prohibit the direct view of the bulbs when seated below the ceiling light.  This design was featured prominently in the stand of Geneviève Pons in the June 1954 Salon des Artistes Décorateurs.  Organized around the theme of “Jeunesse” or youth, the items exhibited sought to find artistic solutions for a typical family’s daily needs and difficulties.