Charles and Ray Eames

Charles and Ray Eames
Alexander Girard
Thence by descent
Alexander von Vegesack
Phillips, de Pury & Company, December 8, 2005, lot 22

Derek E. Ostergard, Bent Wood and Metal Furniture:  1850-1946, New York, 1987, p. 326
John Neuhart, Marilyn Neuhart and Ray Eames, Eames Design:  The Work of the Office of Charles and Ray Eames, New York, 1989, pp. 54-56
Alexander von Vegesack, Peter Dunas, and Mathias Schwartz-Clauss, eds. 100 Masterpieces from the Vitra Design Museum, Weil am Rhein, 1996, pp. 36-37
Doug Ngo and Eric Pfeiffer, Bent Ply:  The Art of Plywood Furniture, New York, 2003, p. 155

Overall very good original condition. The underside in pen GF-3126. With surface abrasions, nicks and scratches. Rubbing to finish throughout and some discoloration from age and surface dirt. One abraded area to the proper left top edge of the back rest as seen in the catalogue illustration which appears lighter in color. The seat and seat back are slightly loose and therefore the chair sits slightly askew.
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 chair was part of a limited production of children's furniture and toys undertaken by Ray and Charles Eames in 1945.  Due to the production costs, the Evans Product Company discontinued the chair in 1947.  The current example was given by the designers to Alexander Girard, one of their colleagues, whose innovative and bold textile artistry accompanied many of their works.