Gustav Stickley

JMW Gallery, Boston, 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. 97

Overall in very good condition. The oak surfaces appear to retain their original finish, with occasional surface scratches, surface abrasions, and edge wear with associated small edge losses (all of which look old and worn) consistent with age and use. The gallery shelf with a small area of dark staining toward the central front edge, and a small circular light ring stain on the left side. The right side of the case with a horizontal abrasion mark (approximately 7 ½ inches long) at the midsection of the case, and with surface soiling and transparent spotting along the bottom register (presumably from a liquid splattering on the case). The copper hardware with some minor light surface scratches and light wear consistent with age and use, and with some small traces of surface soiling/residue. All of the glass appears to be original and undisturbed, with some occasional light surface scratches. With two period Stickley copper keys. A beautiful example of this quintessential Stickley bookcase form, displaying great proportions and exceptional color.
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.