PAUL DUPRÉ-LAFON | Secrétaire from the residence of Paul Dupré-Lafon

leather, parchment, sycamore and brass

Collection of the artist, Paris and thence by descent
Galerie Anne-Sophie Duval, Paris
Private collection, New York
Private collection, France

Thierry Couvrat-Desvergnes, Paul Dupré-Lafon, Décorateurs des Millionnaires, Paris, 1990, illustrated p. 199 in the residence of the artist
Alastair Duncan, Art Deco Complete, London, 2009, illustrated p. 39 

Overall in good condition. The parchment exterior of this work presents with some small areas of discoloration, which are primarily the result of the original adhesive discoloring the paper, and with some small stains, consistent with the natural aging process of this material. The parchment presents with minor lifting along the seams under and above the fall-front. There are a few traces of previous restorations to the parchment : small ones along the seams above the fall-front, a few scattered minute ones on the exterior of the fall-front, and a larger one along the upper edge of the lower drawer (on approximately 3,5 x 1 cm). The proper right side presents with a tiny burn stain on the lower half of the work. The leather elements present with some surface scratches and a few surface tears (more significant on one handle, as visible in the catalogue illustration). The brass elements presents with some tarnishing and some instances of oxidation. The feet with a few minute scratches, minute dents and some light wear along the edges. The interior of the secretaire is fitted in oak, with a few minor surface scratches. The top surface of the fall front is inlayed with orange leather with a few scattered shallow surface scratches, a few dents and a few deeper scratches. It seems that this secretaire was rarely used. The red leather and parchment letter organizer to the interior is removable and in excellent condition.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This lot is sold with a certificate from Mrs Laure Tinel, the artist's granddaughter.