René Lalique

with clear glass insert

Marvin Kagan and Diane Austin, Chicago
Sotheby’s New York, December 1, 1995, lot 96
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Félix Marcilhac, René Lalique, Catalogue raisonné de l'Oeuvre de verre, Paris, 2004, p. 314

Overall in good condition. The glass with a few minor irregularities and air bubbles inherent in the making and not at all visually disruptive. The glass presents with a few light surface scratches and minor surface dirt consistent with age and gentle handling. One of the sides with a horizontal surface scratch at mid-height measuring approximately 1 3/8 in. in length. One of the owls with two very minor open air bubbles, visible in the catalogue illustration and not at all visually disruptive. The cover with three very minor chips, two to one corner, and another to the interior of the cover, the largest measuring 1/8 x 1/8 in. The clear class inset is possibly replaced with minor surface scratches consistent with age and gentle handling. An extremely rare model with great detailing to the owls when seen in person.
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.

Another example of this extremely rare black glass model variant is in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.