Diego Giacometti

Pierre Matisse Gallery, New York
Gift from Pierre Matisse and Patsy Kane O'Connell to the latter's stepsister on the occasion of her wedding, circa 1950
Thence by descent to the present owner

Daniel Marchesseau, Diego Giacometti, Paris, 2005, p. 169

Overall very good original condition. The lamp presents with a few minor concentrated areas of rubbing to the patina from gentle handling, a few minute shallow surface scratches and a few minor areas of isolated rubbing to the patina. The surface around the top ring with a minor white surface discoloration. The felt has recently been partially detached from the underside of the base to reveal that the standard has a composite fill. The shade is original to the piece and presents with some wear consistent with age and use. The lower rim of the paper shade with one tear measuring 2 ½ inches long and another tear measuring ¾ inch in diameter. With an area of loss to the edging of the shade measuring approximately 4 ½ inches long. With scattered small black discolorations along the inner rim of the shade’s aperture. With similar scattered, faint brown discolorations scattered around the lower portion of the rim, the largest of which measuring ¼ inch in diameter. None of these are visible once the shade is placed. The lamp displays with a sculptural presence in person. A wonderful example of the artist’s designs in bronze displaying a highly tactile surface and sophisticated patina with golden undertones. The lamp is electrically stable and fitted with a US standard cord and plug.
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 1948, Pierre Matisse Gallery obtained the exclusive marketing rights in the United States for all Diego Giacometti works, around the same time this "Bougeoir" lamp was made.  Over the span of his 65 year career, Matisse's gallery was influential in the representation of American Modern art, including exhibitions of work by Joan Miró, Marc Chagall, and Alberto and Diego Giacometti, among many others.  The original owner of this lamp was the stepsister of Patsy Kane O'Connell, the second wife of Pierre Matisse.