Otto Poertzel

cold painted bronze, ivory, green onyx, the ivory with gilt highlights

Catley, 2000, p. 281 (Poertzel)
Shayo, 2005, p. 161 (Preiss)

A striking piece of good overall appearance. Two or three very minor old scratches to bronze. The ivory clean and fresh with a couple of minor cracks to one figures forehead, almost imperceptible. The joints of the vertically raised arms of each figure is slightly loose. The ivory is warmer in tone than suggested by the catalogue illustration. Some usual rubbing to gilt highlights as can be seen in the catalogue illustration. Ready for display. Prospective purchasers are reminded that this object contains ivory which may be subject to export and import restrictions. For example, it is illegal to import elephant ivory under 100 years old into the United States. Your attention is drawn to the Endangered Species section in the Guide for Prospective Buyers on page 92 of the printed catalogue. This is also available through the Conditions of Business link on the 'Events Detail' page to this auction or upon request to the department.
"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 is available signed by both Otto Poertzel and Ferdinand Preiss. An example signed by Preiss was sold in these rooms, An Important European Private Collection of Art Deco Figures, 19th May 2010, lot 162.