Armand-Albert Rateau
Rare Perfume Burner
Authenticity guarantee
What is guaranteed?
Armand-Albert Rateau
Rare Perfume Burner
circa 1925
alabaster, gilt bronze
the bronze impressed A. A. RATEAU INVR
6⅛ in. (15.5 cm) high
Overall in very good condition. This rare perfumer burner presents with expected signs of age throughout. The alabaster presents with light abrasions and with scattered minor losses, as pictured in the printed catalogue. The upper part of the perfume burner presents with cracks, the largest running across the shade and measuring approximately 3 ½ in. The central component of the shade with an area of discoloration to the stone surface consistent with heat exposure over time. The bronze presents with light scratches and a very few light verdigris and oxidation marks which are not visually distracting. The underside of the base presents with instances of wear, old adhesive residue and surface scratches. Surface soiling throughout, concentrated to the recessed elements. Sotheby's does not guarantee electrical components and suggests having all wiring inspected by a licensed electrician.
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.
Galerie Vallois, Paris
Private collection, France
Acquired from the above by the present owner
Alastair Duncan, AA Rateau, exh. cat., DeLorenzo Gallery, New York, 1990, pp. 50 and 51
Franck Olivier-Vial and François Rateau, Armand-Albert Rateau, Paris, 1992, p. 217