PIERRE PATOUT | Double-sided bookcase, circa 1957

oak, plywood and lacquered metal

Piasa Auction, Bibliothèque Municipale de Tours, May 19, 2012
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Overall in good condition. The wooden surfaces presents with some surface scratches and a few dents scattered and with minor areas of seam separation and minor infill to the veneer, not visually distracting. The veneer presents with signs of previous small restorations (small infills, stabilization of previous liftings) mostly concentrated along the edges and the corners of the smaller sides. One corner of each element presents with a small chip of veneer, not visually distractive. One side presents with a small dent which measures approximately 1,5 x 1 cm. The metal frames with scattered minor oxidation, some surface scratches and a some re-finished areas.
"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."

In 1957, the architect Pierre Patout built a modernist public Library for the city of Tours on the edge of the Loire River. He also designed tables and bookcases for the Library, sold in 2012 after the building restoration.