ALBERT CHEURET | Three-Light "Cigognes" Chandelier

Paul Stamati Gallery, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 2001

Alastair Duncan, Art Deco Furniture, London, 1997, p. 58 (for a related model)
Alastair Duncan, Art Deco Complete: The Definitive Guide to the Decorative Arts of the 1920s and 1930s, New York, 2009, p. 235 (for a related model)

Overall in very good condition. The silvered bronze surfaces with scattered faint surface scratches and minute abrasions, not visually distracting. The mounts with some very minor traces of chalky residue, concentrated to the recessed areas. Two of the beaks with some minor bending, not visually or technically obtrusive. The three alabaster shades with scattered surface scratches and minor traces of surface soiling, consistent with age and gentle handling. Some areas within the alabaster elements have become white and opaque due to heat from the light bulbs, as is typical with this material. The central alabaster shade and small alabaster ball suspended by the birds' feet each with some scattered minor surface scratches and abrasions. An extraordinarily elegant and refined work with superb details and luxurious materials.
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.

With elaborate manner of production and meticulous attention to detail, the present “Cigognes” chandelier and upcoming pair of sconces (lot 83) wonderfully embody the elegant yet modern style of Albert Cheuret. These works mark Cheuret’s distinct and pioneering approach to design with an elevated level of sophistication evident both in their functional forms and his use of refined materials like alabaster and silvered bronze. Cheuret’s sculptural magnificence is grounded in his careful rendering of naturalistic motifs that flawlessly parallel organic forms. In lots 58 and 83, the dynamic form of the birds depicted midflight complements the soft surfaces of the alabaster fixtures. Together they exquisitely reflect the spirit and splendor of the Art Deco period.

It is known that Cheuret’s decorative designs evolved from his training in sculpture led by the famed neoclassical artist Philippe-Joseph-Henri Lemaire. Cheuret regularly
participated in the Paris Salons and the Exposition des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels
Moderne of 1925 proved to be a pivotal movement in his artistic development.
During this time, Cheuret’s stylized ornamentation set against abstracted
geometrical shapes became the icon of Le Style 25. With natural and exotic motifs of
bird figures rendered in dynamic forms, the present lots create a lively composition that exemplifies Cheuret’s undeniable charm in Art Deco lighting designs.