Eugene Schoen

Overall in good condition. The white painted legs of the chair with only minor surface scratches, losses to paints, chips nicks and dings as expected. The chair has been re-upholstered and is in excellent condition.
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 his office in New York City, much of Schoen’s residential work was confined to sumptuous apartment interiors.  However, on one of the rare occasions he ventured out of the New York area, he created the most complete expression of his talents:  the 25-room Cafritz mansion in Washington, D.C.  Built in 1937 for real estate developer Morris Cafritz and his wife Gwendolyn, this was Schoen’s largest residential commission.

 

The interiors Schoen created for the Cafritzes were expressly designed to accommodate and promote Gwendolyn’s passion for entertaining on a grand scale.  Like all his interior work, every detail was designed by Schoen or under his supervision.  As there were many rooms to deal with, Schoen would create a variety of moods under one roof, including the Chinese modern bedroom for Mrs. Cafritz.  Produced near the end of Schoen’s career as a furniture designer, the Cafritz pieces rely less on inlays and more on the subtle beauty of matching exotic woods. 

 

Gwendolyn would become one of the leading hostesses of Washington’s power elite, yet remained a figure that conservative society termed a “colorful” personality.  She saw no shame in courting the press and promoting herself.  Although her individuality outraged some, an invitation from Gwendolyn Cafritz was seldom turned down.