Josef Hoffmann

Daniele Baroni e Antonio d'Auria, Josef Hoffmann e la Wiener Werkstätte, Milan, 1981, p. 99 (for a drawing of the model and photograph of the breakfast room interior)
Eduard F. Sekler, Josef Hoffmann:  Das Architektonische Werk, Salzburg, 1982, p. 286
Kirk Varnedoe, Vienna 1900:  Art, Architecture & Design, New York, 1986, p. 45
Josef Hoffmann 1870-1956:  Ornament zwischen Hoffnung und Verbrechen, Vienna, 1987, p. 55
Werner J. Schweiger, Wiener Werkstätte:  Design in Vienna 1903-1932, New York, 1984, p. 153
Der Preis Der Schönheit:  100 Jahre Wiener Werkstätte, exh. cat., MAK, Vienna, 2003, pp. 74-75
Gabriele Fahr-Becker, Wiener Werkstätte, Cologne, 2003, pp. 24, 26-27

Overall very good condition. Each table with some minor dryness consistent with age and use. It appears that the tables were possibly slightly restoration at some point in their history, which was executed in a sensitive manner. Surface scratches, nicks and dings. Each table with minor signs of warping from age, most visible in legs. One of the table tops is also slightly warped as well. Subtle color difference between the two tables. One table with a crack to the lower side stretcher below the table top, which extends the full two inches (visible in the catalogue illustration on the table to the right). It appears old and stable. Minute separations to the top joints consistent with age, only visible on close inspection. Tables are a richer brown color and the white haze in the catalogue photographs is a result of the photography and not the actual tables.
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.

The present and the following lot were included in the Josef Hoffmann designed interior of the Purkersdorf Sanatorium, and were amongst a limited number of original works that remained within the residence through its various ownership changes.  It is believed that these tables were originally part of the dining room, as they retain evidence of brackets, which would have been used to configure the illustrated long central table. 

 

The present owner acquired the tables when some of the remaining original designs from the Sanatorium were sold upon the transfer of ownership to the firm of Buwog, Bauen und Wohnen, Vienna.