Hugo França b. 1954

pequi wood

Acquired directly from the artist

Julia Chapman, `An Old Friend of Ancient Wood,' The New York Times, March 6, 2008, p. 20
Hugo França:  The Story of the Tree, exhibition catalogue, New York, 2008, pp. 40-41

Overall excellent original condition. With some very minor surface scratches and surface dirt to crevices.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Working with salvaged fallen trunks from the south Bahia rainforest in eastern Brazil, Hugo França harnesses the natural power and presence of colossal trees and translates it into superbly sculpted forms.  Motivated by what he calls "minimum intervention," França's designs embrace the inherent beauty of the pequi and allow the wood to maintain its unique character. After a career working at a computer company, Franca followed his passion to design furniture and immersed himself for over a decade in the study of woodworking amongst the Pataxó Indians.  The result is a functional design that demonstrates the natural beauty of the forests and culture in his native Brazil.