Marcel Duchamp

Frida & Hans Richter, Southbury, Connecticut (offert par l'artiste)
Par descendance au propriétaire actuel

Ecke Bonk, Marcel Duchamp, The Portable Museum, Londres, 1989, pp. 180-183, un autre exemplaire reproduit p. 299
Arturo Schwarz, The Complete Works of Marcel Duchamp, vol. II, New York, 1997, no. 484, Série C, p. 764

Please note that measurements in inches are incomplete in the printed catalogue and should read 15 3/4 x 14 3/4 x 3 1/2 in. This edition was not signed by Duchamp but does bear the French customs stamp, inherent to the history of the edition. The present example is not in perfect condition as it has not been stored in ideal indoor conditions. Of the 68 items contained in the valise, the majority of the reproduction plates and objects remain in a very good condition, whilst the more exposed reproductions show signs of wear: the cover reproduction 'Sonate' shows foxing, and the grey cloth cover of the valise shows some staining. 'The Chocolate Grinder': there are significant horizontal scratches running through the moitif at the lower centre of the plastic reproduction of the 'Large Glass'. 'Tu m'': there are significant areas of abrasion, predominantly on the left and right sides. '3 stoppages': there is significant evidence of exposure to rodents. 'Why not sneeze': also shows signs of wear. This work remains in an overall fair condition. Please refer to the department for further details.
"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."

grey-cloth-covered valise containing 68 mini replicas of works by Marcel Duchamp. Executed in Paris in 1958 in an edition of 30, assembled by Iliazd.

Duchamp sent the contents for this edition to Paris from New York in 1956. The French Customs refused to recognise them as works of art and allowed them to be reimported as 'samples'.