Sam Maloof

Acquired from the artist
Dr. and Mrs. Bergen Evans, Chicago, IL

Sam Maloof, Sam Maloof:  Woodworker, New York, 1983, pp. 76 and 154 (for related extension tables)

Overall in excellent original condition. The table presents with some minor surface scratches, consistent with use. The table is designed in a manner to accommodate two extension leaves. The four inches at the end of each side of the table are attached to extension boards affixed to the lower portion of the table. These immediate ends of the table can therefore be pulled out and the two leaves then inserted into the space. Each extension adds 14 inches to the table’s overall length. The extensions however appear to have been stored and not used by the Evans family, and therefore present currently in a much darker tone, as seen in the catalogue illustration. The color of the two extensions are slightly inconsistent as well, which was inherent in the design. The top of the table with some lightening in color, as a result of exposure to the sun. The original finish was recently cleaned by a professional. A spectacular table showing beautifully figured walnut, with a detailed sculptural base characteristic of Maloof’s designs. This lot is being sold with a significant amount of original material related to the commission, including blueprints and period photographs.
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 following three lots represent a selection of the works designed for the Evans family by Sam Maloof.   Mrs. Bergen Evans, who was introduced to the Maloof's work at a Chicago exhibition, was interested in acquiring furniture for the interior of their home.  However, she requested a modification of an earlier chair design.  The chair designed for this commission, known later as the "Evans" chair, would become one of Maloof's most popular chair designs and one that he continued to produce and modify throughout his lengthy career.

The lots offered from this collection provide a unique insight into a working relationship with this master craftsman.  Each of the lots in this offering include original blueprints, as well as correspondence and photographs, which document not only the fabrication, but also the collaboration between the Evans family and the designer.

This lot is being sold with an original blueprint of the table design from the workshop of Sam Maloof, four original photographs taken by the studio at the time of completion, original correspondence between the purchasers and Maloof, including the original estimate for the commission, and two books on the designer, titled Sam Maloof Woodworker and the Furniture of Sam Maloof.