Gio Ponti

"Across the Seas Collaboration for the New Singer Collection," Interiors, December 1951, pp. 126 and 128
"Modern by Singer," Domus, February 1952, p. 51

Overall in good condition. This model of bookcase and sideboard was designed in two configurations, one in which the two elements are attached by three wooden elements, the other has the two works separated (like the present offering). The present configuration is featured in Interiors article on the line made by Singer for US sale. The sideboard presents in person in very good condition with some minor edge nicks, scattered shallow surface scratches, and some minor dullness to finish. The top of the sideboard with two scratches measuring approximately three inches in length. The proper right door to the sideboard with an area which appears slightly darker in tone, and is possibly an area of restoration. The top with three areas to the top which appear slightly darker in tone, which appear to be were where the three risers were placed at some point in the piece’s history. The reverse of the sideboard is not finished, and the work is therefore intended for use against the wall. With some later fastening hardware to the reverse. With key. The bookcase element with some minor amateur restorations to the upper portions of the case and to the lower seam of the exterior. These include infill and the piece is presently stable but would benefit from stabilization. With some scattered surface dirt, shallow surface scratches and edge nicks consistent with age and use. The storage element to the bookcase is fitted with glass shelves. With some minor sun fading to the upper portion of the bookcase, as there is a line five inches up to the interior of the proper right side that shows the darker original color to the lower portion of the work. This appears consistent with sun fading and the line is likely a result of sun exposure or a work placed on the bookcase that blocked the sun exposure. The back of the bookcase presently lacking original hanging hardware and the later hardware has been used to install the work on the exhibition floor. A good example of the model.
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 present lot is from a furniture collection developed by Singer, a New York based furniture company, to capitalize on the developing interest of the American public in Italian design during the 1950s.  The twenty-one piece collection included works by noted Italian designers including Gio Ponti, Ico Parisi and Carlo Mollino.  Each piece was manufactured in Italy to maintain the quality of the craftsmanship, and then imported into the United States.