Gustav Stickley

Cathers & Dembrosky, New York, 1996

At Home with Gustav Stickley: American Arts & Crafts from the Stephen Gray Collection, Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, Hartford, CT. October 11, 2008-January 4, 2009

Stephen Gray, The Early Work of Gustav Stickley, New York, 1987, p. 69
David M. Cathers, Furniture of the American Arts and Crafts Movement, Philmont, NY, 1996, p. 227

Overall in very good condition. The oak surfaces appear to retain their original finish, displaying exceptionally rich color. With some occasional light surface scratches, abrasions, and edge wear consistent with age and very gentle use. The front lower left corner of the door with a small surface abrasion with an associated shallow edge loss (which appears to be very old and worn, approximately ¼ x ¼ inch). The interior latch with a small triangular old edge chip to the top right corner (approximately ½ x ½ inch). The interior of the cabinet with two small areas of dark surface residue (which appears to be a spilled liquid) on the bottom shelf. The leg posts with a few tight and stable stress fractures inherent in the natural expansion and contraction of wood over time. A superb example of the model with exceptional figuring and color. The somno displays beautifully in person, and the wood is a richer brown with red undertones and more vibrant than seen in the catalogue illustration (which is slightly too dark and yellow).
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.