Lot 203
  • 203

ÉMILE-JACQUES RUHLMANN | "Ducharne" Sofa and Pair of Armchairs

Estimate
70,000 - 100,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann
  • "Ducharne" Sofa and Pair of Armchairs
  • each branded DESSINÉ PAR RUHLMANN/EDITÉ PAR PORTENEUVE
  • macassar ebony, gilt bronze, fabric upholstery
  • sofa: 36 1/2  x 63 1/2  x 38 in. (92.7 x 161.3 x 96.5 cm)chairs: 35 1/2  x 26 1/2  x 33 in. (90.2 x 67.3 x 83.8 cm) each
  • circa 1932
chair model no. 237nr

Provenance

Commissioned directly from the artist by a Private Collector,  1932
Christie's Geneva, May 18, 1991, lot 257 and 259

Literature

Yvonne Brunhammer, Le Style 1925, Paris, 1975, p. 60 (for the chair model)
Pierre Kjellberg, Art Deco: Les Maitres du Mobilier, Paris, 1981, p. 167 (for the chair model)
Florence Camard, Ruhlmann: Master of Art Deco, New York, 1983, pp. 142 and 218-220 (for the chair model)
Yvonne Brunhammer, Art Deco Style, New York, 1984, p. 52 (for the chair model)
Emmanuel Bréon and Rosalind Pepall, Ruhlmann: Genius of Art Deco, Paris, 2004, p. 222 (for the chair model)
Florence Camard, Ruhlmann, Paris, 2009, p. 343 (for the chair model)

Condition

The sofa and armchairs each in overall in very good condition. The proper rear lower left apron with an area of veneer which has been professionally and sensitively replaced and measures approximately 1/4 x 1 3/4 in. The upper rear wooden back rail of one armchair with a minor chip measuring approximately 3/8 in. The gilt bronze feet are in very good condition retaining their original gilt finish with minor scattered oxidation and surface scratches. The upholstery was recently replaced and is in excellent condition. The suite is a rare ensemble and in very good, age appropriate condition. The subtle and refined woodwork is highly characteristic of the designer. Its sinuous line and gentle curve exemplify the artists' mastery of materials.
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.