Thomas Molesworth

with leaded glass window

Commissioned by George Sumers for Old Lodge, Glenwood Springs, Colorado, circa 1935
Dr. and Mrs. George S. Bayoud, by acquisition of Old Lodge, circa 1985
Christie's New York, Furnishings from Thomas Molesworth's "Old Lodge" for George Sumers, June 7, 1995, lot 74

Overall in very good condition. Originally designed in 1935 as the front door for Old Lodge in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, the door is painted a vibrant cherry red on one side and the reverse (originally the side facing outwards to the porch) is varnished natural wood finish. Each side retains original hammered-iron hardware and there is a central leaded glass window. The paint of the red side of the door, as well as the decorative motifs and blue trim of the window, is in largely original, age appropriate condition with a few minor areas of touch up throughout. The lower corners of the blue window frame with small concentrated areas of loss to the paint, as visible in the catalogue illustration. The wood surfaces, particularly of the unpainted side, present with irregularities and variation to the grain of the wood, inherent in the material, as well as scattered scuffs, scratches, nicks, some areas of rubbing and variation of color, and with surface soiling concentrated to the recesses of the design, all consistent with 1930s execution and gentle use. The painted side of the door presents with a faint craquelure throughout, as is partially visible in the catalogue illustration and cover. The top and bottom of the painted side of the door each with a small loss to the wood that has been painted over, the largest of which is at the top measuring approximately 1 1/8 x 5/8 in. The natural wood side of the door with some more pronounced chips and losses to the wood along the bottom edge of the panels, consistent with age and use. The door has a later extension added to the bottom (4 5/8 in. high) and the original circular lock plate on the front of the door has been removed and filled in, as is faintly visible in the catalogue illustration. The metal elements throughout with some minor scuffs, surface soiling, rubbing, and instances of oxidation, not visually distracting and consistent with age and gentle use. The glass in very good condition with very few minor surface scratches. An iconic example of Molesworth's oeuvre originating from one of his most lauded commissions, the piece presents very well overall.For photos of the reverse of the door, please contact the department.
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.