Donald Deskey

David A. Hanks and Jennifer Toher, Donald Deskey:  Decorative Designs and Interiors, New York, 1987, p. 9
J. Stewart Johnson, American Modern 1925-1940:  Design for a New Age, New York, 2000 (for a related cigarette box from the collection of John C. Waddell)

Overall very good original condition. The painted surface throughout presents with minor discoloration, surface scratches, abrasions and some scattered chips and losses concentrated to the immediate edge and corners, consistent with gentle handling and age. The red painted sides of the box with a few scattered isolated discolorations, possibly minute paint or ink flecks. The red paint to the edges of the top with light darkening to the coloration likely the result of handling. This extremely rare box with some minor rubbing and light discoloration to the applied paper on the top of the box as seen in the catalogue illustration. The paper with one minor edge loss at the lower border, approximately ¾ inch in length and two other more minor losses to the proper right and proper left edges of the paper. The top with some scattered soiling and minor surface dents. The interior of the box is not painted and shows some surface discoloration and two areas of soiling. The interior of the lid with the remnants of an adhesive label. The underside of the box with an applied Deskey Vollmer label and some isolated rubbing and losses to two areas at the edges painted surface. The underside with one minor circular discoloration and some shallow surface scratches, consistent with use. Please visit sothebys.com for additional views of this offering. The present lot is the only known extant example of this wonderful and intricate design encapsulating the modern aesthetic of the period.
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.

The iconography Deskey chose to decorate this rare box’s exterior epitomizes the sights and sounds of New York's Jazz Age.  The graphic narrative portrays a "night on the town'' in New York City, similar in subject to the “Jazz” bowl series later designed by Viktor Schreckengost in 1931.  Neon signs of Times Square and towering skyscrapers reference the city’s evolution and capture the vibrant energy and speed of the era.  This box is the only example presently known of this rare design.