Harry Bertoia

Gift from the artist
Private Collection
Wright Chicago, May 23, 2006, lot 132
Acquired from the above by the present owner

June Kompass Nelson, Harry Bertoia:  Sculptor, Detroit, 1970, cat. no. 6 (for a drawing of related forms dated 1943)
Nancy N. Schiffer and Val O. Bertoia, The World of Bertoia, Atglen, PA, 2003, (for a related example)

Overall very good original condition. The piece with some light discoloration, which is minor and inherent with age. One of the elements is bent as seen in the catalogue illustration. It is unknown whether this is original to the design, or an issue of condition, as no period documentation of the model exists. Should one wish, it is easily straightened by a professional restorer. The work presents beautifully in person, showing an intimately scaled field of stylized foliate sculptures. With minor surface dirt to the recessed portions of the design and with some small and minor traces fo discoloration and rubbing to finish. The work is an atypical design within Bertoia's oeuvre and presents wonderfully in person.
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.