Dirk Van Erp

Don Ritchie, San Francisco, CA

Sheila Schwartz, ed., From Architecture to Object:  Masterworks of the American Arts & Crafts Movement, New York, 1989, pp. 120-121 (for a Van Erp lamp with a similar shade)

Overall in very good condition. The shade retains all of its original mica, which shows a few minor areas of flaking and darkening consistent with age and use. The patina on all of the copper surfaces of the base and shade is original, with some occasional light surface scratches, gentle rubbing, and a few scattered areas of surface soiling and paint drips. Two small areas on the shade battens are abraded along the side edges. One or two of the shade arms appear to be slightly bent and would benefit from a very minor adjustment. The integrated top finial of the shade is slightly irregular along the perimeter edges, with a few very shallow and subtle depressions. With replaced sockets, cord guide, and cord. Pull chains appear to be original. A superb example of this rare shade form, displaying extraordinary radial hammering on the base with a particularly rich patina.
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 rare lamp is one of only a few known examples by the Van Erp studio to display an additional horizontal copper strap in the central register of the shade with alternating rows of vertical battens.  This unusual treatment of the shade, heightened by the decorative use of rivets, imparts the lamp with a dramatic architectural presence.  The lamp is further distinguished by the treatment of its raised articulated cap, boldly flaring base with radial hammering, and the graceful sinuous lines of the shade arms.