Lot 144
  • 144

Paul T. Frankl

Estimate
75,000 - 100,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • Paul T. Frankl
  • "Skyscraper" Vanity
  • with firm's "Skyscraper" tag
  • lacquered wood, chromium-plated metal, glass and mirrored glass
produced by Frankl Galleries, New York

Literature

Paul T. Frankl, Form and Re-Form:  A Practical Handbook of Modern Interiors, New York, 1930, p. 40

Condition

Overall excellent original condition. The piece retains all original chromium plating and lacquered surfaces throughout. With a few very minor light surface scratches to the lacquered surfaces consistent with gentle use. The chromium-plated surfaces present with a few small and minor scattered discolorations concentrated to the proper right side of the lower portion of the vanity consistent with the natural aging process of the material. The piece appears to retain all original hardware. The reverse with some light surface scratches consistent with gentle use as the piece is intended to be placed against a wall. With the firm's label affixed to the reverse, which is pictured in the catalogue accompanying the introductory essay to lots 142-146. The lacquered surfaces present in a brilliant orange hue when viewed in person, and are just slightly less red than the coloration that appears in the catalogue illustration. This iconic example from the "Skyscraper" series displays great architectonic scale and dynamism with its vibrant lacquered and chromed surfaces and a form evocative of a 1930s New York City high-rise.
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.

Catalogue Note

 

This “Skyscraper” Vanity is clearly evocative of the towering architecture of the Manhattan skyline in the 1930s.  The model was featured in Frankl’s Form and Re-Form published in 1930, which served as a style guide and treatise on Frankl’s vision of modern design.  In reference to his “Skyscraper” series, Frankl stated in the introduction of the book, “good forms are but few; and they are eternal… a contemporary style is maturing before our eyes.”  The present lot is a clear example of an eternal form, redolent with the dynamic spirit of 1930s New York City architecture through its rectilinear contours as well as its chromed horizontal accent lines that suggest the stacked structure of a skyscraper’s glass and iron construction.