Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann

Sotheby's New York, November 17, 1984, lot 354
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Florence Camard, Ruhlmann:  Master of Art Deco, New York, 1983, p. 274
Florence Camard, Jacques Émile Ruhlmann, Paris, 2009, p. 277

Overall in very good condition. This work is executed in a highly figured ebénè de macassar veneer which presents in person with deeply contrasting deep brown and caramel tones. Virtually the entire exterior is veneered and is only visible under the drawers. The frame of the vanity with some light surface scratches and very minor isolated nicks to the veneer. These are concentrated to the front proper right edge of the foot and the edge of the top, which are all consistent with age and use. Since the reverse of the vanity is finished the piece does not need to be placed against the wall. The reverse with surface abrasions measuring 3 inches in length on the case and foot. Some isolated areas of light crazing to the finish. The shagreen inset of the top is in excellent condition, showing very light surface dirt and a highly detailed texture. There is no lifting or staining to this portion. The ivory bordering of the shagreen inlay with tight age cracks throughout which show slightly darker in color and are visible in the catalogue illustration. The largest crack extends from the center drawer front almost the entire length to the proper left edge to the handle. The ivory drawer handles with some restoration. One of the handles with a stabilized crack, and another has been re-glued to the screw post. One of the door pulls is a modern ivory replacement, which was produced by a professional restorer to match the original handles. The drawer interiors with minor staining from use. The original dowels (to prevent the doors from being pulled too far out from the case) have been retained. The brass frame of the mirror with some light discoloration consistent with natural again process of the material. The chair with some light surface scratches to the lower portion of the legs and some minor chips concentrated to the edges. The seat appears to been re-holstered in a white silk with one small area of soiling measuring less than a ½ inch in length. With some light soiling overall to the seat from use. This is a truly elegant model with delicate and intricate detailing in both the ivory and shagreen, and the application of veneer.
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.