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, pp. 181 (for a discussion of the "SK" Chair design), 198-200 (for a discussion and illustration of the present lot)

Overall very good original color and condition, light natural wear to surfaces and extremities commensurate with age and use. The leather webbing is also original, with good age related color and patina. The webbing to the back rest of one chair is slightly dry with one vertical strap having a tear approximately ¼ inch from the edge of the strap – however despite this the back rest remains firm and sturdy – however would benefit from application with a suitable leather conditioner. In our opinion each chair has an attractive rich grain and patina, and the frame of each remains sturdy and firm. Each chair is carved with the designer's monogram and dated 1958. This presents a rare opportunity to acquire a scarce model from one of the most highly regarded commissions in the designer's career.
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.

Upon installation of their new Esherick dining table (lot 339) in their home, the Rubinsons determined their existing dining chairs were disharmonious with the organic-shaped table and commissioned the artist to create complementary chairs.  Esherick's design for the chairs was an adaptation of his 1942 chair design for the Schutte-Koerting commission in Cornwall Heights, Pennsylvania.  Its refined form and simple, well-crafted construction were groundbreaking.  One such "SK" Chair is currently in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.