Harvey Ellis

Private Collection, New York State, ca. 1903
Thence by descent

Stephen Gray, The Early Work of Gustav Stickley, New York, 1987, p. 6 (for a related example with variant inlay design)
Tod M. Volpe and Beth Cathers, Treasures of the American Arts and Crafts Movement:  1890-1920, New York, 1988, p. 36 (for a related example with variant inlay design in the collection of Carnegie Museum of Art)
David Cathers, Stickley Style:  Arts and Crafts Homes in the Craftsman Tradition, New York, 1999, p. 93
Ray Stubblebine, Stickley's Craftsman Homes, Layton, UT, 2006, p. 26 (for the model in the collection of Crabtree Farms)

Overall in very good condition. The ebonized oak surfaces throughout appear to retain their original finish, displaying superb dark rich color. When this chair was recently discovered, it was in untouched condition, with its surfaces throughout heavily soiled. The oak surfaces have been sensitively cleaned, revealing the original ebonized finish. The oak surfaces throughout show some occasional light surface scratches, abrasions and edge wear consistent with age and gentle use. There is a tiny burrowed hole on the backside of the proper right leg post (1/16 inch in diameter). All of the inlay is intact and appears to be original and undisturbed, with the exception of the central copper segment on the chair back (in the shape of a wishbone) which has been replaced. This conservation was skillfully executed and is not apparent. The copper and wood inlays show gentle wear, with some occasional darkening to some of the copper elements. The drop-in seat frame appears to be original, and the black leather upholstery looks quite old but not original. The back interior seat rail retains a very faint old white chalk number (208/2646) which is possibly from the period. A superb example of this important and iconic model, displaying an exceptional ebonized finish and rare variant inlay design.
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.

The present example is distinguished by its particularly rich ebonized finish and the rarity of its exquisite variant inlay design.