Paul Frankl

Acquired directly from Frankl Galleries, Los Angeles
Thence by descent

Paul T. Frankl, Space for Living:  Creative Interior Decoration and Design, New York, 1938, p. 31 (for a related model)

This large sectional sofa remains in good original condition. No restoration or re-upholstery has been undertaken on this work, which previously had been stored away since 1972. The lacquered wood frame of the sofa with some minor nicks and dings, consistent with use. The edges showing chipping and losses, concentrated to the outer edges and corners, as seen in the catalogue illustration, which reveal the gray underpaint. The largest area of loss is to the red painted region to the reverse of the central element of the sofa, measuring six inches in length, shown in the center of the catalogue illustration. The sofa divides into three elements, with the proper left approximately 22 inches longer in length. The cutout bookcases, seen in the illustration on the back of the sofa, also wrap around to the sections that become the arm elements to each side. Age has slightly warped the proper right and left elements and therefore there is a little separation where it meets the central element (as seen in the catalogue illustration on the right page of the catalogue). The interior of the shelving elements have some stains from an unknown substance, also seen in the catalogue illustration, which would benefit from a professional cleaning. The upholstered portions of the sofa comprise an upholstered frame and various cushions, which are used as individual seat cushions and throw pillows. Since this sectional sofa has been sealed in a storage unit since the 1972, we cannot confirm that all the original cushions are intact. It would appear that a number of the cushions were used as throw pillows, and it is likely that some have been lost. It also appears that one seat cushion may be lacking, and has been replaced with a throw pillow. The upholstered portions with significant surface dirt, soiling and some areas of discoloration. Overall it appears the upholstery has become slightly yellowed in color. The seat portions of the upholstered seat frames with two significant areas of losses to the fabric which expose the framework and underseat. This is not visible once the seat cushions are in place. There are 12 square and rectangular cushions which serve as throw pillows and seat cushions. Each measure approximately 20 inches square. These cushions with surface dirt, soiling and signs of compression of the stuffing consistent with age and use. Overall the upholstered portions of the sofa would benefit from cleaning and possibly re-upholstery. This is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire a large sectional by Frankl in true original condition.
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.