Tommi Parzinger

Rena Rosenthal, New York
Lawrence Rockefeller, New York

"Modern Furniture Gains Lightness," The New York Times, August 21, 1938, p. 134

Generally very good overall condition. The chair with some spliced veneer repairs and veneer fill repairs as expected from age and use. Horizonal veneer cracks where the arms meed the seatrail as expected. Some rubbing at the edges and minor veneer chips to legs. The vanity has a few scattered veneer repairs as expected. The back and top center edge are probably slightly adapted as the fixed three-way vanity mirror was removed at some point. There is evidence of birch veneer replacement to the back top edge and the back apron of the piece has a 12 x 3 x 1 in. spliced panel of oak.
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.

Tommi Parzinger, although trained in Germany, saw his career flourish in America in the 1930s.  Upon arrival in the United States, Parzinger sought the guidance of noted gallerist Rena Rosenthal, who later retailed his work through her showroom in Manhattan.  In a 1938 review in the New York Times, Parzinger's work was declared as "simple forms, modern because they are reduced to their simplest element, but graceful because of the delicately curved lines."  Pairing rich textured woods and contrasting materials, the present lot demonstrates that easeful design aesthetic.