Maria Pergay

Suzanne Demisch, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 2006

Anne Fourny, "Un événement dans le mobilier contemporain, l'acier inoxydable," Plaisir de France, January 1969, p. 47, no. 8 (for a view of the model at the Galerie Maison et Jardin, Paris, May 1968)
Suzanne Demisch, Maria Pergay: Between Ideas and Design, Verona, Italy, 2006, p. 33
Suzanne Demisch and Stephane Danant, Maria Pergay: Complete Works 1957-2010, Bologna, Italy, 2011, pp. 131-132, no. 32 and 287 (for the present lot illustrated)

Overall in good condition. The surfaces with some surface scratches, minor abrasions and scattered dirt consistent with age and use. The marquetry of the top with one of the element slightly loose, visible on the front edge of the catalogue illustration and a minor indentation along the edge. An exceedingly rare table (only 3 examples of the model have been produced) which epitomizes Pergay's talent in the use of steel, of very delicate scale.
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.

This model was introduced in May 1968 at the Galerie Maison et Jardin landmark exhibition of Maria Pergay's first stainless steel creations. Organized by decorator Jean Dives, the show created a sensation: on the exhibition’s opening night, the fashion designer Pierre Cardin purchased all of Pergay’s works, effectively launching her career as one of the preeminent designers of the era.  In describing her relationship with the medium, Pergay explained “There is something deep inside between me and stainless steel. This material which looks so strong, hard and cold is sweet and not sharp.” With its dynamic geometric marquetry top and evocative title, the present table epitomizes Pergay's poetic and delicate use of steel, which she believed was "as precious as the most precious of all woods."  Only three examples of this model have been produced. 

Sotheby's would like to thank Maria Pergay for her assistance in cataloguing this lot.