Diego Giacometti

Sale: Sotheby Parke Bernet Monaco S.A., Arts Décoratifs Styles 1900 et 1925, 23 June 1979, lot 295
Acquired directly from the above

Françoise Francisci, Diego Giacometti, Catalogue de l'oeuvre, Vol. I, Paris, 1986, p. 90
Daniel Marchesseau, Diego Giacometti, Paris, 1986, p. 62 in situ at Gunter Sachs' residence

Steel frame at top has four small holes in the middle of each bar, done at the time of making, probably to secure a top. In our opinion these have never been drilled or used. Currently the piece has a clear glass top. Frame with very minor spots of verdigris and one leg is very slightly bent out of true. Otherwise excellent.
"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."

To our knowledge this rare console table exists in only two versions. Its strict, simple architecture presents the console in its purest possible form. Created around 1963, this model predates the later consoles where Diego Giacometti added animals and figures. The beautifully proportioned lines and intersecting geometric forms seem to suggest a drawing translated into bronze and the hand wrought quality of the piece is further enhanced by the 'knots' created at the points where the various rods intersect.

This console is related to a small desk or writing table (see Marchesseau, op. cit. p. 55) executed around 1964, which also employs the scallop-like supports for the top (glass in the case of this lot, and wood for the desk).