Lot 133
  • 133

GEORGE NAKASHIMA | A Rare Triple Cabinet

Estimate
50,000 - 70,000 USD
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Description

  • George Nakashima
  • A Rare Triple Cabinet
  • American black walnut, East Indian rosewood, woven seagrass
  • 28 5/8  x 104 1/8  x 25 1/2  in. (72.7 x 264.4 x 64.7 cm)
  • 1962

Provenance

Commissioned directly from the artist by the original owner, 1962
Thence by descent
Sotheby’s New York, February 26, 1994, lot 283

Literature

Mira Nakashima, Nature Form & Sprit: The Life and Legacy of George Nakashima, New York, 2003, pp. 174 and 181 (for a related example in situ in the Conoid Studio)

Condition

Overall in excellent condition. The surface of the single-board top has been professionally and sensitively cleaned and oiled, highlighting the beautiful and rich color of the natural wood. The cabinet opens by three sliding doors and is divided into three compartments. The cabinet is accompanied by two adjustable shelves and four drawers. The wood surfaces with scattered minor surface scratches and light wear, consistent with age and gentle use. The woven sea-grass elements with some occasional very minor losses to the fibers, not visually distracting and consistent with age and gentle use. The back of the cabinet is finished, which is rare for this particular form and allows for use as a sideboard or room divider. This cabinet is a true embodiment of George Nakashima's spiritual relationship with wood and impeccable craftsmanship.
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.

Catalogue Note


The present triple cabinet is a visual celebration of George Nakashima’s spiritual approach towards craftsmanship. Its richly figured single-board top features two highly sculptural free-form edges, honoring the inherent beauty and integrity of the material. A dramatic overhang on one side, accented by a singular butterfly key, imparts the work with a strong dynamism and asymmetry, as would be found in nature. Thoughtfully conceived and masterfully executed, the cabinet is complete with a finished
back that allows for use as a sideboard or room divider. As a whole, the present lot emphasizes Nakashima’s expert synthesis of natural forms and versatile structure while preserving the spirit of the material.