Carl Conrad Braun

comprising coffeepot, teapot, sugar, creamer and waste bowl

Presented as a wedding gift, circa 1938
Thence by descent to the present owner

A. Frederic Saunders,"Trends in Silver," Jewelers' Circular-Keystone, March 1938, p. 46
Jewel Stern, Modernism in American Silver, New Haven, 2005, p. 128 (for the "Vogue" coffeepot in the collection of the Dallas Museum of Art)

Overall very good original condition. The present service has been in the family of the present owner likely since the time of its creation and the present condition shows great care throughout the ownership. The elements of the service with a few very small and minor surface scratches, which are consistent with gentle use and handling. The lid of the teapot does not close completely flush, as seen in the catalogue illustration. The surfaces with some very minor surface dirt and polished residue to the recessed portions of design. The service with minor evidence of tarnish and some light fingerprint marks. The ivory remains in good condition with some minor discoloration consistent with the natural aging process of the material. The ivory finials with a few minute localized areas of discoloration likely caused from adjacent tarnish. This is very rare offering of a large number of pieces in the “Vogue” pattern. This offering is not a full service, but remains the largest service offered in this pattern. Please refer to the conditions of sale or contact the 20th Century Design department at 212-606-7170 regarding the current federal regulations regarding the export of ivory from the United States.
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.

In 1938, Reed & Barton hired architect Carl Conrad Braun to create a tea service that capitalized on the marketplace demand for classically-inspired designs. Greek architectural references are evident in the delicate reeded handles, ivory finials and fluted foliate motif along the body and spout of the “Vogue” tea service.  An example of the “Vogue” coffeepot is in the permanent collection of the Dallas Museum of Art.  The present lot is one of the few examples of an extensive service from this series known to exist.