Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann

Private European Collection
Sotheby's London, March 20, 1998, lot 517

Overall good restored condition. The bronze mounts have been resilvered and present with light surface scratches, minor abrasions and a few scattered areas of pitting, consistent with the resilvering process, and minor surface dirt to the recessed portions of the design. The alabaster is likely replaced in a manner that is consistent with the original and presents with light surface dirt and a few surface scratches and minor edge abrasions consistent with age and gentle handling. One of the coupes with a restored break to the center, perpendicular to the wall, visible in the catalogue illustration and with a small associated triangular area of infill and an area where the alabaster has become slightly whiter and more opaque from contact with the bulb. The other coupe with two concentrated areas with evidence of heat exposure, where the alabaster is whiter and more opaque, visible in the catalogue illustration. A good opportunity to acquire an iconic design by Ruhlmann.
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.