Harry Bertoia

Acquired directly from the artist, 1981
Leon Prince
Thence by descent

Nancy N. Schiffer and Val O. Bertoia, The World of Bertoia, Atglen, PA, 2003, pp. 97-105 (for maquettes and photographs of the fully realized sculpture)
In Nature's Embrace:  The World of Harry Bertoia, exh. cat., Philadelphia, 2006, p. 15 (for the realized fountain at the Philadelphia Civic Center)

Overall very good original condition. This work is slightly more green 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.

The present lot is a study for a fountain created by Harry Bertoia for the Philadelphia Civic Center in 1967.  The dynamic wave form in the full-scale sculpture was covered in water, creating an atmosphere of vibrant movement across the jagged bronze surface.  Bertoia executed similar fountains for the Manufacturers and Traders Trust building in Buffalo and Marshall University in West Virginia. 

This lot is being sold with a letter of authenticity from Brigitta Bertoia.