- 91
Henry Varnum Poor
Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- Henry Varnum Poor
- Two-Handled Vase
- incised with artist's monogram and 58 and paper label from Milton Caniff
- tin-glazed terracota
Provenance
Collection of Milton Caniff, New City, NY
Collection of Burgess Meredith
Private Collection, Michigan
Collection of Burgess Meredith
Private Collection, Michigan
Literature
Henry Varnum Poor, Book of Pottery: From Mud Into Mortality, Englewood Cliffs, 1958, pp. 29, 38 and 50
Condition
Overall in excellent condition. When examined under black light there is no evidence of prior restoration. With a few minute scattered surface imperfections to the glaze inherent in the making. Some light surface soiling to the recessed contours of the body and interior. Some of the raised edges along the body of the vase showing the natural color of the ground with a lighter application of the glaze, which is inherent in the design and beautifully accentuates the dimensionality of the raised sculptural elements. Wonderful and richly saturated colors to the glazework throughout. A very large and accomplished piece by the artist displaying the height of his artistry. -----
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 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.
Catalogue Note
The figural rendering on the present lot is believed to be Milton Caniff, noted cartoonist and close friend of the artist. This work was likely a gift to Caniff and then remained in his personal collection as noted on the label to the underside of the work. The vase later entered the collection of the actor, Burgess Meredith, who was friendly with Caniff and resided in a home designed by Poor. A photograph of the three is retained in the artist’s papers in the Archives of American Art at the Smithsonian Institution. This work, with its expressive portrait and brilliant hues in the glaze work, demonstrates Poor's expertise in the portrayal of a deeply personal subject.