Billy Haines

leather executed by Stergis M. Stergis

Peter Schifando and Jean H. Mathison, Class Act: William Haines, Legendary Hollywood Decorator, New York, 2005, p. 113 (for a similar coffee table designed by Haines for the Goetz House, Holmby Hills, CA, in 1949)

Overall good original condition. With scattered abrasions to the leather along the edges of the top and sides. The largest of these areas of abrasions measuring 8 inches of scattered abrasions to the both the upper and lower registers of the side. Some of which reveal the natural brown color of leather. With scattered scratches to the top and feet. Some minor nicks to the surface. The three feet of the table with later added wheels, that move with ease. The staining is original to the piece, and has minor rubbing. The table is a darker red in color than it appears in the catalogue illustration.
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.

Nunally Johnson was one of the most successful screenwriters in Hollywood.  In celebration of his success and marriage to his third wife, Dorris Bowdon, Johnson hired noted interior designer Billy Haines to decorate his home.  Haines had established his career in California by creating unique modern stylized interiors for the Hollywood elite.  A similar coffee table is documented in a Haines-designed interior for William Goetz, who worked as producer with Johnson on various films.