Hermès

Designed in consultation with rider Simon Delestre. Selected and customised by Jony Ive and Marc Newson for the (RED) Auction 2013. Edition 01/01.

Overall excellent condition. This saddle was produced in a unique color by the firm especially for the (RED) 2013 auction. The coloration of the saddle is slightly darker in tone than it appears in the printed auction catalogue. It is a rich darker red color when viewed in person. There a few minute surface imperfections to the leather, some possibly inherent in the making. The leather is executed in the finest Hermes leather and with wonderful detailing to the construction. This lot is sold with a cloth covering and the wall mount used to display the saddle in the exhibition. This work is being sold with a certificate from the (RED) 2013 auction.
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.

Donated by Hermès International.

175-year-old Hermès is a preeminent luxury brand whose products are coveted the world over, but for Jony and Marc it is the company's consummate craftsmanship that lifts it to design's top ranks. Because Hermès started out making equestrian products - founder Thierry Hermès' shop produced some of Paris' finest harnesses and bridles for the carriage trade - they chose a saddle to include in the sale. Designed in consultation with champion show jumper Simon Delestre, the Hermès Cavale was launched in April 2013 at the Saut Hermès competition at the Grand Palais, where it was instantly recognised for its comfort and its uncanny ability to create closer contact between horse and rider. Equestrians will appreciate the suppleness of the saddle's leather (only two skins out of a hundred presented to its design team meet their strict quality standards) and its remarkable durability, but Jony and Marc were taken by the sheer beauty of Cavale's ultra-rational form and its exquisite detailing and craftsmanship. This saddle was created for the (RED) Auction and is the only one to be produced in Rouge H colour and with custom red stitching.