Paul Dupré-Lafon

together with a blotter designed by Paul Dupré-Lafon

Private Collection
Tajan Paris, May 21, 2001, lot 94
Collection of Claude and Simone Dray, Paris
Jean-Jacques Dutko, Paris
Acquired from the above by the present owner

"Inventaire," Art et Décoration, 1946, vol. 1, p. 23
Thierry Couvrat Desvergnes, Paul Dupré-Lafon:  Décorateur des Millionnaires, Paris, 1990, pp. 176-177
Bruno Foucart and Jean-Louis Gaillemin, Les Décorateurs des Années 40, Paris, 1998, p. 117
Anne Bony, Furniture & Interiors of the 1940s, Paris, 2003, pp. 85-86

Overall in very good condition. This piece is a masterwork by the designer and comprises a number of exceptional materials. The signature red Hermès leather to the top of the desk and sides is original and shows some signs of age and use. The leather has acquired a beautiful patina. The color in the catalogue illustration is an accurate likeness to the saturated red tone of the leather. With a few shallow surface scratches to the top, as seen in the catalogue illustration. With some rubbing to the leather panel along to edges, most pronounced along the proper left top edge, which appears lighter in color. The leather remains soft and in stunning condition considering its age and likely use since the 1940s. The top of the desk is fitted with two recessed storage areas with sliding parchment top panels, which remain in excellent condition. The front edge and back edge of the desk are executed in a richly finished wood which has some scattered nicks, chips and white abrasions across the front surface and lower portion of the legs (as seen in the catalogue illustration). These are minor with the largest to the front paneling measuring ½ inch in length. With a minor vertical sliver loss measuring approximately 1 1/4 inches in length to the reverse of the desk along the outer edge of the paneling to the proper right side. The reverse of the desk with three wooden extensions under the desktop that can increase the work space of the desk. The parchment fronts and backs of the drawer elements show minor discoloration overall consistent with the natural aging process of the material. The darker discolorations are a result of the glue used to affix the material discoloring the paper. The reverse of the desk with scattered discolorations to the paper as a result of the aging glue. There is a small one inch area of possible restoration to the parchment above the lock to the proper right drawer case. This piece is also being offered with a blotter dating from the same period of the desk. The back of the blotter is comprised of a dark green leather panel. The edges of the leather panel with rubbing and some scattered losses to the edges visible in the inset detail image accompanying the online catalogue. The cushion padding to the underside of the blotter with some staining, likely from use. The leather on the blotter is impressed HERMES PARIS. Please visit sothebys.com to see additional photographs of the large scale masterwork desk and the accompanying blotter. This work in monumental in size and has significant presence when viewed in person. A superb work displaying a magnificent leather top, which has acquired a beautiful patina.
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.

This lot is sold with an original certificate of authenticity from the legal successors of Paul Dupré-Lafon.