Thomas Molesworth

Commissioned by George Ragner for Ragner Ranch, Lake Conneaut, Pennsylvania, circa 1942
Thence by acquisition of Ragner Ranch, circa 1965
Fighting Bear Antiques, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Terry Winchell, Molesworth: The Pioneer of Western Design, Layton, UT, 2005, p. 56 (illustrated)

Overall in very good condition. With its supple leather surfaces and vibrant hues, this rare console radio is a testament to Molesworth's technical mastery of his craft. The radio was once part of the single ranch commission of the Ragner family, who displayed the radio as the centerpiece in their den. The leather was expertly applied by Doug Skelkorn, the upholsterer for Molesworth's firm. The leather is original; its surfaces with light scattered scuffs, scratches, nicks, minor marks, and instances of rubbing and slight discoloration, all consistent with age and use. The rear proper left side of the top of the radio with an area of residue measuring approximately ½ x 7/8 in., not visually distracting. The front proper right edge of the radio with a mark and small abrasion to the leather, measuring approximately 1 in. long and ¼ x ¼ in., respectively. The edges of the radio display and control panel with some minor craquelure to the leather. The area below the lower proper left corner of the control panel with a faint scratch to the leather measuring approximately 1 in. long and as partially visible in the catalogue illustration. The painted text above the dials has faded slightly over time. The lower panel opens forward to reveal a two-tiered shelving unit; the top edge of this panel door with some minor fading to the leather. The painted textile to the door is original and likely hand painted by Molesworth himself. The textile with some darkening to the cloth overall due to age, as well as some scattered spotting and water staining, and with a tear to the proper right side and along the bottom edge that has been sensitively and professionally conserved. The wood surfaces with some minor scattered scuffs and scratches, consistent with age and gentle use. There are natural knots and irregularities in the wood grain, typical for Inland fir. Currently the radio is not in working order, however all original parts are retained. A very rare model, available only by special commission, the piece is well documented and presents exceptionally well overall.
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.

With its supple leather surfaces and vibrant hues, this rare console radio is a testament to Molesworth’s technical mastery of his craft.  The radio was once part of the single ranch commission of the Ragner family, who displayed the radio as the centerpiece in their den.  The commission was acquired directly by Terry Winchell of Fighting Bear Antiques, who later sold the radio to the Blooms.  The leather was expertly applied by Doug Skelkorn, the upholsterer for Molesworth’s firm.   It gracefully follows the contours of the wood moldings, echoing Italian furniture of the 1940s.  The contrast of the bright blue and white leather against the hand-peeled, half-pole fir trim at the top and skirt adds dimension and a decorative element to this piece. The radio retains is original internal elements (though not currently functional), Bakelite buttons and switches.  The front of the radio presents with the original cloth panels which exhibit hand-painted Native American “Yei” figures on cloth, likely executed by Molesworth himself.  The rarity of these vintage radios is of note:  according to one of Molesworth’s early catalogues from the late 1930s, each radio was unique and only executed by special commission.  The rarity of these radios today is no doubt due to the small commission size as well as the extensive time and high degree of skill required to perfect each individual element.