WENDELL CASTLE | An Important Executive Desk from the Collection of Wendell Castle

Overall excellent condition consistent with age and delicate use. Originally in the collection of (and regularly used by) Wendell Castle, the present owner acquired the piece direct from the the Studio, brokered by Kagan Gallery, in 1981. The piece has remained in the same office since acquired and delicately cared for by the present owner, a private collector from Philadelphia. The desk presents with a richly saturated and nicely figured walnut of a slightly warm red hue. The overall form is highly sculptural, wonderfully conveying Wendell's abilities with his hallmark stack-laminate technique. The surface of the desk is in excellent condition presenting with no overt scuffs or scratches. A few very minor and scattered bumps,, at the edge of the desktop (less than ⅛ in), nearly indecipherable and only visible upon close inspection. There is a minor seam separation across the back edge of the table top, but this is common for the technique, stable and only visible upon close inspection. The central column of the desk with a few isolated areas of minor separation between the laminates, a few with subsequent radiating tight hairlines. This is very common for stack laminate pieces due to variations in humidity through the years. Each laminate is structurally sound, stable and in good condition. To the proper right of the drawers there is an area of laminate infill, included by Wendell at the time of execution, to allow for additional structural support for the organic form between the laminates. Each drawer with subtle carving at the handles and all are in excellent condition. The bottom drawer can be a bit stiff to open. A carved signature of WC73 is located a the lower left side of the drawers. The desk retains an open sided crate that is sufficient for shipping by truck. The work is constantly evolving in form as one walks around the desk and it stands alone as a artistic work of sculpture, yet also a highly functional piece of design. A true masterwork by Wendell Castle that has been thoughtfully cared for over the past 37 years, the piece has a powerful, yet elegant sculptural presence.
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.