Louis Majorelle

mahogany, tamarind veneer, gilt bronze

Acquired by the grandfather of the current vendor, by repute from an exhibition in Paris after the turn of the century

Jules Rais, "L'École de Nancy et son Exposition," in Art et Décoration, April 1903, pp. 129-138 (for a period discussion on Majorelle's work presented at the 1903 Exposition)
Alastair Duncan, Art Nouveau Furniture, New York, 1982, pl. 38
Alastair Duncan, Louis Majorelle, Master of Art Nouveau Design, London, 1991, ill. no. 56, p. 165, ill. no. 5  (for a contemporary in situ photograph)
Roselyne Bouvier, Majorelle, une Aventure Moderne, Paris, 1991, pp. 140, 169

An important and impressive piece of good overall appearance. Piece has a slightly darker patina than the catalogue illustration suggests and the gilt bronze mounts are of a richer, more golden, tone than the photograph shows. Minor old marks and scratches in places consistent with age and use. Gilt bronze with traces of build up of polish and minor verdigris to some crevices. Lower bronze pad feet are currently removable. Piece has been repolished and has one or two small areas of restoration, such as to a small area to the moulded edge of the lower tier. A further 2cm section of moulding is lacking to this tier. Top has a wooden fillet spliced into the underside which most likely indicates a former crack to the carcase has been restored. This is reflected in two slight slender depressions to the top which run across one trefoil. These are not distracting or readily apparent. A striking and icnoic Nouveau piece which is ready for display. Further images available upon request. An independent metal restorer has quoted a cost of £600 +VAT (subject to confirmation) to clean the mounts, including collection and delivery back to our warehouse. This straightforward process would include lightly treating the verdigris then cleaning the mounts and then waxing and polishing overall. Some prospective buyers may feel this would not be needed and that the current condition is preferable.
"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."

This model was first exhibited at the Paris Salon des Artistes Français in 1902. It continued Majorelle's furniture series aux nénuphars which was first shown at the Paris Exposition Universelle in 1900.

The elaborate aux nénuphars series, together with the orchidées series, form the most celebrated elements of Majorelle's work. Executed in limited numbers, the design of the present lot was a great success. With its overt naturalistic modelling it incorporates a life-size water lily petal top of trifoliate form embellished with buds running vertically up the shaped supports. The juxtaposition of luxurious gilt mounts and exotic timbers, in combination with its bold and powerful form, means that this rare design is now celebrated as one of the purest expressions of Art Nouveau, from the leading proponent of the style.

Another example of this model sold: Sotheby's New York, Important Prewar Design, 14 December 2007, lot 386.