Gio Ponti

produced by Singer & Sons, New York

Acquired by the present owner, 1959

"Modern by Singer," Domus, February 1952, p. 51
“Across the Seas Collaboration for the New Singer Collection,” Interiors, December 1951, p. 127
Ugo La Pietra, ed., Gio Ponti, New York, 1995, pp. 180-181 (for a related desk design)

Overall very good condition. The wood surfaces with light surface scratches, nicks and dings, and some light rubbing to the finish, consistent with age and gentle handling. With some scattered pen marks to the wood surfaces consistent with gentle use. The desk top presents with varying degrees of sun lightening that progresses across from the proper right side and ends with a line of discoloration approximately 3 inches from the proper left edge of the top. The proper left top drawer with evidence of old restoration to the proper right corner measuring approximately 4 inches with some overpainting and subsequent fill loss. Two of the other drawers with some evidence of fill and overpainting to the edges, both evidence of old restoration. The proper right side panel of the desk with one square veneer loss to the edge in the center of the panel measuring approximately ¼ x ¼ inch. The brass mounts with some minor discoloration and light surface scratches, consistent with age and gentle use. This desk presents as a wonderful example of the form for use in the round— the reverse has open shelving capable of storage as seen in the catalogue illustration.
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.