Thomas Molesworth

Buffalo Bill Village, Cody, Wyoming, circa 1939
Fighting Bear Antiques, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Terry Winchell, Molesworth: The Pioneer of Western Design, Layton, UT, 2005, p. 79 (for a related desk)

Overall in good, age appropriate condition. There are natural knots, irregularities and separations in the wood grain, typical for Inland fir. The wood surfaces with faint and minor scattered scratches, signs of wear, and minor presence of dirt to the recesses of the design, all consistent with age and gentle use. The inside of the central drawer with an area of discoloration measuring approximately 5 7/8 x 1 ¾ in. The leather top is original and presents with a pale daffodil yellow tone when compared against the catalogue illustration. The leather surface with scattered craquelure, scuffs, scratches, nicks, areas of discoloration and residue, and instances of rubbing, the latter concentrated to the corners, and all consistent with age and use. The proper right side of the desktop with a more prominent impressed discoloration, shaped as an ovular ring measuring approximately 5 5/8 x 4 ¼ in. There is a very minor loss to the edge of the table above one of the frontal brass tacks measuring approximately 1/8 x 5/8 in, visible in the catalogue illustration. All brass tacks and fir knobs are present and appear original. A rare form, the desk is executed in Molesworth's characteristic half-pole fir.
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.