Thomas Molesworth

with cut-out shade executed by Russell Blood

Fighting Bear Antiques, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Robert and Geraldine Dellenback, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Coeur d'Alene Art Auctions, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, July 26, 1997, lot 71

Elizabeth Clair Flood, Cowboy High Style: Thomas Molesworth to the New West, Layton, UT, 1992, p. 39 (illustrated)

Overall in very good condition. There are natural knots, irregularities and separations in the wood grain, typical for fir, and this has been reinforced with wood infill in areas by Molesworth at the time of production. The wood surfaces present with scattered scuffs, scratches, dents, abrasions, and minor areas of rubbing not visually distracting and consistent with age and gentle use. The underside of the uppermost wooden element, next to the socket, with a very minor nick measuring approximately 1/8 x 3/8 in and not visible when the shade is placed. The leather base and brass tacks with some areas of minor rubbing, all consistent with age and gentle use. The leather of the base has been professionally and sensitively reupholstered. The exceptionally large pierced-wood shade is original and executed by Russell Blood. Its wood surfaces with very minor areas of rubbing, not visually distracting and consistent with age and gentle use. The shade's paper backing with some scattered discoloration and spotting. There is one small tear at the base of the lampshade, near the bottom of the pierced wood motif, (3 ⅝ in. long) as well as a loss in paper (4 ⅜ x 6 ¼, in., largely contained behind the wood motif) which have been sensitively and professionally conserved. When unilluminated, the repair is nearly undetectable. When illuminated, the stain of the conserved paper is slightly fainter in hue than the original waxed kraft paper. Overall a very rare form within Molesworth's oeuvre, displaying beautiful natural knots throughout the wooden column. The shade is also of exceptional rarity, exhibiting a variety of Western and forest motifs in pierced wood.
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.