Dirk Van Erp and Grueby Faience Company

Hirschl & Adler Galleries, New York
Cathers & Dembrosky, New York, 1996

From Architecture to Object:  Masterworks of the Arts & Crafts Movement, Hirschl & Adler Galleries, New York, October 7-November 18, 1989
Struve Gallery, Chicago, December 15, 1989-January 22, 1990

Overall in excellent condition, retaining their original inset Grueby tiles and original patina on the hand-wrought copper surfaces throughout. The Castle tile with a tiny surface fleck to the top right corner. Both tiles are backed on the reverse with square-shaped pieces of leather which appear to be original (see photo showing the reverse sides of the bookends on Sothebys.com). The copper surfaces with light wear and rubbing to the patina consistent with age and gentle use, and with scattered traces of surface soiling and one small light surface spot to the copper framing along the top border of the Ship tile. The rear copper book support on the Ship tile is very slightly upturned. The bookends present beautifully in person, and represent a superb example of this exceedingly rare design. The colors of the glazed earthenware tiles are more vibrant than seen in the catalogue illustration, which is slightly too dense and red.
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.

These bookends are the only know collaboration between Van Erp, D'Arcy Gaw and Grueby.