Viktor Schreckengost

Etta Cosin, Brooklyn, NY, ca. 1935
Thence by descent

Henry Adams, Viktor Schreckengost and 20th-Century Design, Cleveland, 2000, p. 91

Generally very good overall condition. Some fine scratches to the bottom interior of the bowl as expected from light occasional use. There is a small area of adjacent glaze flecks to the bottom edge of the ring foot (the largest approximately 1/8 x 1/8 inch), which appears to be from the bowl being removed from the kiln. There appears to be a very fine and stable hairline crack running parallel to the rim about 3/4 inch below the rim for 2 inches with a related 3/4 inch hairline crack running down from the rim to join it at the mid-point. A great example of this iconic and rare form, displaying an exceptionally rich and saturated aqua glaze.
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.

The example presently offered represents Cowan's third and final production variant of Schreckengost's iconic "Jazz" bowl.  This bowl differs from Cowan's earlier series in that its size is slightly smaller, and its production utilizes a casting technique which allowed the bowls to be produced more economically.  Consequently, the variant was quickly nicknamed "The Poor Man's Bowl."  While the bowl is decorated with the same imagery as its predecessors, Schreckengost's signature is inscribed across the label of a liquor bottle, a detail not found on the earlier bowls.  According to the artist, only twenty examples of this final variant were produced.

This bowl has been authenticated by The Viktor Schreckengost Foundation and is registered under the serial number 8083.