Charles Rohlfs

Collection of Dr. Edgar and Dorothy McKee, Texas
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Leslie Greene Bowman, American Arts & Crafts:  Virtue in Design, Los Angeles, 1990, p. 63 (for the model in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art)
David Cathers, Stickley Style:  Arts and Crafts Homes in the Craftsman Tradition, New York, 1999, p. 172
Joseph Cunningham, The Artistic Furniture of Charles Rohlfs, New Haven, CT, 2008, pp. 210 and 256 (respectively for the model in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and illustrated in Rohlfs' advertising card)

Overall in very good original condition. The oak surfaces throughout appear to retain their original finish, with some occasional light surface scratches, minor surface abrasions and edge wear consistent with age and very gentle use. With one very minute corner loss to the outer proper left corner shelf supporting the copper drip pan. The underside of this element with some minor wax residue; a small and minor area adjacent to the underside of the circular opening with evidence of charring and darkening. The hand-wrought copper surfaces throughout appear to retain their original patina, with a few minor scratches, abrasions, surface soiling, and with a few scattered traces of surface oxidation consistent with age and use. The patina of the copper panel to the upper portion of the sconce with a wonderful painterly appearance upon close inspection. The copper hood with some minor surface indentations as seen in the catalogue illustration. The candle and copper candle drip pan with evidence of light use, including minor lightening to the patina, surface soiling and rubbing. The copper drip pan with evidence of lead soldering to the underside which is possibly later and not visible once the element is fitted into the sconce. All of the screws and hardware appear to be original and undisturbed. The sconce displays beautifully in person, with dramatic lyrical lines and intricately carved fretwork which contrasts elegantly with the rich patina and modern lines of the metalwork. -----
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.