Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann

Raymond Subes, Paris
DeLorenzo Gallery, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 2005

Gabriel Henriot, "Le Pavillion du Collectionneur," Mobilier et Decoration, July 1925, pp. 120 and 122  
Florence Camard, Ruhlmann:  Master of Art Deco, New York, 1983, p. 91 
Emmanuel Bréon and Rosalind Pepall, Ruhlmann:  Genius of Art Deco, Paris, 2004, p. 50
Emmanuel Bréon, Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann:  Furniture, Paris, 2004, p. 86
Florence Camard, Jacques Émile Ruhlmann, Paris, 2009, p. 180

Very good overall condition. The surface wood with some minor surface scratches and minor abrasions, consistent with age and gentle use. Some surface dirt in the recessed areas. The lower edges of the armchair and ottoman with a few minor chips to the veneer from gentle use. One feet of the ottoman with a minor loss to the veneer adjacent to the bronze feet and measuring approximately ½ x 1/8 inches, with adjacent lifting to the veneer. The proper left lower corner of the armchairs with an area of light discoloration and minor surface staining of the wood, visible on catalogue illustration. The bronze feet with minor scratches, traces of wear, minor oxidation and light surface dirt in the recessed areas, consistent with age and normal use, as seen in the catalogue illustration. The armchair and ottoman have been reupholstered in beige velvet, which is in very good condition. With its pure lines and superb craftsmanship, this lot is a wonderful example of the artist's expertise.
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 CONTEXT
It’s iconic.  Here, Ruhlmann has mastered one of the great furniture forms which demands expertly designed proportions and upholstery. Both the chair and ottoman are slightly raked, which is evident when looking down on them. Of all the furniture Ruhlmann designed, the pieces he created between 1918 and 1925 were the best. In these works, he made use of choice materials, sublime upholstery, and simple refined forms.
– Alan Wanzenberg