Wharton Esherick

Commissioned directly from the artist by Nat and Rose Rubinson
Thence by descent to the present owner

Mansfield Bascom, Wharton Esherick: The Journey of a Creative Mind, New York, 2010, p. 201 (for the present lot illustrated)

Overall in good condition. This piece was custom-made to be fitted over a step with one side placed against the wall (not finished.) One side is a bookcase with fixed shelves (visible in the catalogue illustration), the other side is a cabinet, the interior fitted with one fixed shelf. When viewed in person, the wood presents with rich use and great detailing in the veining. The surfaces present with some minor surface scratches, a few minor abrasions and light surface soiling consistent with age and gentle use. The top with a small separation to the joint perpendicular to the wall, which ends into a small hairline crack, not visually distracting. The interior of the cabinet with some surface scratches, wear, and light surface soiling consistent with age and use. The painted surfaces with a few small surface abrasions and light surface dirt consistent with use. The bottom of the cabinet side with a later added panel at the bottom, where the piece was originally covering a step in the commissionner's home.
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.