Lot 34
  • 34

Thomas Molesworth

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 USD
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Description

  • Thomas Molesworth
  • Pair of Armchairs
  • burled fir, blue and white leather upholstery, hammered brass tacks
  • 33 1/2  x 28 3/4  x 38 1/4  in. (85.1 x 73 x 97.2 cm)
with two removable cushions

Provenance

Fighting Bear Antiques, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Robert and Geraldine Dellenback, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Coeur d'Alene Art Auction, July 26, 1997, lot 132

Literature

Elizabeth Chair Flood, Cowboy High Style: Thomas Molesworth to the New West, Layton, UT, 1992, p. 50 (illustrated)

Condition

Overall in very good condition. The wood surfaces with scattered scuffs, scratches, nicks, dents, abrasions, some instances of adhesive residue, and areas of rubbing and discoloration, the latter concentrated to the front of the armrests, consistent with age and use. There are natural knots, irregularities, and separations in the wood grain, typical for Inland fir, which have been reinforced with wood infill by Molesworth at the time of production. The rear upper edge of the poles of each chair with slightly more pronounced abrasions, the largest area measuring approximately 3/8 x 2 in. The front section of the proper right armrest of one chair with a small chip to the edge that appears to be recent, measuring approximately 1/8 x ¼ in. The leather is reupholstered by Terry Winchell in the early 1990s and presents with deeper shades of midnight blue than is visible in the catalogue illustration; its surfaces with some very minor surface scratches, nicks, dents, creases, and areas of rubbing, all consistent with age and gentle use. One seat cushion with slightly more pronounced craquelure and two small tears to the leather surface, the larger measuring approximately 1 in. long. The leather trim the proper left arm of one chair with a few tassels missing, as visible in the catalogue illustration. The brass tacks with some minor surface scratches and areas of rubbing, not visually distracting and consistent with age and gentle use. 2 tacks are missing on the inside property right arm of one chair (one of which is retained) as is visible in the catalogue illustration. A jovial example of Molesworth's iconic Western High Style, expressed through knotty burls, contrasting leather fringe and vibrant leather cushions.
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.