Louis Majorelle

Macklowe Gallery, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 1984

Alastair Duncan, Louis Majorelle:  Master of Art Nouveau Design, London, 1991, p. 179
Alastair Duncan, The Paris Salons 1895-1914, Volume III: Furniture, Suffolk, United Kingdom, 1996, p. 392 (for a related work)

Overall in good condition. This settee has a sensitively applied later finish. The wooden frame with some shallow surface scratches and with concentrated edge nicks, dings and minute losses to the lower portion of the legs, consistent with gentle use. With some minor seam separations which are consistent with age and use. The arms of the settee with evidence of restoration at both the proper right and proper left joints at the backrest and the joints at the front stretcher. There is evidence of the infill which appears slightly darker in tone at each of these restorations. The restorations appear to have been professionally executed and are stable. With two small circular areas of restoration to the lower portion of the arms which present slightly darker in coloration in comparison to the frame. The upholstery on this settee appears later and is executed in a manner consistent with the original design. The upholstery with some light soiling and wear, but remains in good condition as seen in the catalogue illustration. The reverse of the settee with two upholstered panels that are executed in a cotton fabric, and do not match the upholstery to the front of the work. The carved decorative scheme is finely executed and an elegant design.
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.