George Nakashima

Mrs. Nelson Rockefeller, Pocantico Hills, NY, 1974-2007
Sotheby's New York, June 19, 2007, lot 109
Sebastian Barquet, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner

George Nakashima:  Full Circle, American Craft Museum, New York, May 6-August 20, 1989
James A. Michener Art Center, Doylestown, PA, September 17-November 19, 1989
Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, Los Angeles, CA, April 4-May 27, 1990

This extraordinary bench displays the finest of George Nakashima’s output. Designed and used in the interior of his most acclaimed commission, the present lot is a truly rare offering to appear at auction. Further, this piece was exhibited at the American Craft Museum in Manhattan, as one of the signature works showcasing Nakashima’s designs. The bench was executed used an extraordinary walnut board with deep tones and rich figuring. There is single rosewood key to stabilize a natural fissure in the board at the proper right edge, as seen in the catalogue illustration. There are a few very shallow surface scratches and a couple of edge nicks the bench which are only visible on close inspection. There is a small hairline age crack located center of the bench along back edge of the bench that extends ¼ inch, which is stable. This bench has a magnificent scale, and comprises an extended backrest when compared to other “Conoid” form benches that Nakashima designed. The pairing of the spindled-back and the freeform base, shows the height of elegance in Nakashima’s designs.
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 year 1974 marked a pivotal time for George Nakashima, as it was the beginning his largest and most impressive private commission.  The Japanese House, commissioned by Governor and Mrs. Nelson Rockefeller in Pocantico Hills, remains one of the pinnacle achievements of George Nakashima's career.  The home, designed by Junzo Yoshimura, contains a superb interior almost completely comprised of Nakashima designed furniture.  Called Greenrock by Nakashima, this interior included over 200 pieces, comprising many unique designs as well as some forms that have since assumed the commission's name.  The present lot is not only part of this landmark commission, but also was included in the first solo exhibition dedicated to Nakashima's work entitled Full Circle at the former American Craft Museum in New York.  Remarkable in the size and wood selection, this bench demonstrates the purity and natural simplicity of Nakashima's design theory.