Piero Fornasetti

Christie's New York, December 17, 1983, lot 393
Private Collection
Christie's Los Angeles, May 16, 1998, lot 203 

Overall in good original condition. This is a monumental work by Fornasetti and shows considerable signs of age. Sotheby's recommends professional restoration of this particular work. The screen is divided into four separate pieces as the break between every eight panels does not have hinges. The front surface of the screen with minor areas of discoloration and general yellowing throughout as a natural result of the aging process of the materials. Rubbing and very minor losses to the black decoration. The decorated surface is in very good condition. The bottoms edges of the front edges of the screens with greater surface dirt, chips and losses to the surface, likely from adjusting the screen. As these are concentrated to the lower portion, they do not impact the design. The edges of the panels with a painted veneer without decorative scheme. With scattered losses to approximately each edge of the 32 panels. There are two portions of edge panels, which have losses to the veneer extending over 30 inches, the entire distance between the upper and middle hinges. With three other edge sections on different panels with substantial lifting, which would need to be secured before the veneer is lost. The majority of the losses to the edge veneers are approximately 4 inches in length and adjacent to the hinges. With scattered separations to the seams throughout and a few areas of later infill. The screen edges and reverse with stickers scattered throughout. With larger shipping labels adhered to the reverse likely following the second Christie's sale on each panel (some panels with more than one large sticker). The labels and tape to the edges appear to have been markings for ordering the screen. All the labels have been on the surface so long, they are no longer removable by a non-professional without damage to the surface. The reverse of the screen shows the greatest degree of damage. The reverse of the screen is painted and without decoration. It appears that there was a degree of re-painting of the reverse at some point in the screen's history and therefore some of the panels have portions appearing whiter in color and with areas of infill. There are three areas of impact which have resulted in a caved-in surface. The impact areas appear like dimples with cracks to the surface, but with limited losses. The three areas are stable, the largest measuring over eight inches in length. None of the areas have impacted the front decorated surface of the screen. With labels, adhesive residue, surface dirt, chips, nicks, areas of discoloration and surface scratches throughout. The hinges all appear to be original. With some original screws, although many have been replaced. Not all the replacements match. The hinges with wear, scratches and areas of oxidation. Some of the hinges are stiff, and some of the screws have stripped the screens. Lacking three hinges.
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.