Pierre Chareau

L'Arc en Seine, Paris, 2006

Centre de création industrielle, Lumières, je pense à vous, exh. cat., Centre Pompidou, Paris, 1985, p. 150
Pierre Chareau: architecte, un art intérieur, exh. cat., Centre Pompidou, Paris, 1993, p. 155

Overall very good condition. The metal surfaces throughout present with light scratches, minor oxidization and minor rubbing to the patina consistent with age and use. The recessed areas of the armature with some light surface dirt, consistent with gentle use. The metal elements with nice patina throughout. The alabaster panels appear to be original. They present with shallow scratches and minor edge abrasions, consistent with age and gentle use. Some corners with minute chips, consistent with gentle use. The panels with traces of light abrasions along the edges, due to the rubbing with the metal armature and hardly visible when the panels are inserted in the mounts. One of the panels with approximately four minor areas of sensitively undertaken restoration to two corners. Another panel with very minor and sensitively undertaken restoration to one corner. The four alabaster panels are a well matched set showing consistent warm coloration and detailed veining. The alabaster presents with a slightly less yellow hue when viewed without illumination. Additional photographs available upon request. The base with a brass socket fitted for bayonet bulb appears to be original. The wood used to execute the base displays rich figuring and a saturated color palette. When viewed in person the color of the wood is a little lighter than it appears in the catalogue illustration. The wooden surfaces with very minor shallow surface scratches and a few minor surface abrasions, as seen on catalogue illustration and consistent with age and gentle use. A portion of the upper edge has been lightly worn due to the rubbing of the metal armature. This lamp is a true masterwork with perfect combination of materials and superb sculptural form.
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.