Andy Warhol

Acquired directly from the artist, circa 1960

Overall good original condition. The glass presents with some light surface soiling throughout, mostly concentrated to the upper portion of the shade. The hand-painted decoration with some rubbing, flaking and losses, mostly concentrated to the snakes and partially visible in the catalogue illustration. The red snake with more significant paint losses, the lower half having almost completely disappeared (not visible in the catalogue illustration, please contact the department for further images). The lacquered metal elements with a few light scratches and tiny chips of lacquer. The metal element holding the glass bulb is slightly bent along one edge measuring approximately 1 inch. An incredibly charming and dynamic unique work executed by Warhol for Teddy and Arthur Edelman.
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.

Before Andy Warhol emerged into the New York arts scene to eventually achieve international recognition for his reprinted Pop works, he had already developed a notably successful career as a graphic designer and illustrator throughout the 1950s.  In 1957, Warhol approached Arthur and Teddy Edelman with his portfolio at their leather goods store, Fleming-Joffe. The couple became immediately enamored with both Warhol’s work and his personality; in Teddy’s succinct words, “He walked in, we loved his work, and we hired him.” Over the following years through 1964, Warhol took charge of the company’s visual identity and fashioned designs that engaged with Fleming-Joffe’s distinctive use of tanned and dyed reptile skins. Animals such as snakes, alligators, and lizards often appeared in his works in the form of anthropomorphic cartoons that represented the different leathers for sale, taking on a cheeky tome that matched the droll wit of their creator. The present lights appeared alongside the magazine advertisements, interiors, and other materials that Warhol created to promote the Edelmans’ brand and, today, sustain their legacy.