Lot 112
  • 112

Osvaldo Borsani (1911 - 1985), handles attributed to Lucio Fontana

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
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Description

  • A commode
  • manufacturer's enamelled metal label to the inside 'ABV, Arredamenti Borsani Varedo (Milano)'
  • 100cm. high by 130cm. wide by 46cm. deep;
  • 3ft 3¼in., 4ft 3¼in., 1ft 6in.
mahogany, satin birch, glass top reverse painted in deep red and gilt bronze, of shaped rectangular form, with an inset glass top above fluted cupboard doors, the figurative cast handles within a plain recess, enclosing four drawers above an open space with one adjustable moulded shelf, on tapering legs with brass sabots

Condition

An elegant commode of good overall appearance. Piece has been repolished. Old marks and scratches in places, such as to the reverse painting of the top and the exterior of the commode. Both panels to the backs of the figural handles have been cracked and restored. A small part to the top moulding has been restored. The escutcheons to the interior drawers have been repainted. With one key.
"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."

Catalogue Note

From the early post-war period Osvaldo Borsani began to build and to enhance personal and professional relations with the most influential artists of the time, such as Agenore Fabbri, Aligi Sassu and in particular Lucio Fontana.

The Milanese designer established a long and prolific collaboration with Fontana which resulted in designing the interior and the furniture of some of the foremost Milanese apartments and Lombard houses. Among them, perhaps one of the most significant is Casa Gentili in Milan (1947) where Lucio Fontana decorated the ceiling and designed the figural support for the console in the dining room.