Agustín Cárdenas (1927-2001)

Private Collection, France (acquired from the artist)

José Pierred, La sculpture de Cárdenas, Brussels, 1971, p. 48, no. 120, illustrated (incorrectly referred to as Colonne de Feu II)

The sculpture is in good condition considering its age and the material. The sculpture consists of two carved ebony sections that are joined in the middle of the sculpture. The two joined sections do not meet up perfectly which has resulted in a horizontal seam that is slightly out of alignment and visible. Tinted wax fills have been inserted into the seam to reduce its appearance. Numerous vertical dimensional cracks that have occurred as a result of age can be seen throughout the sculpture. These cracks range in width from hairline to 1/4inch. Some of these cracks have been filled with tinted wax to reduce their appearance. Cardboard shims have been inserted into the stone base to reduce the sculpture's movement. The sculpture does flex slightly at the seam when hoisted from a horizontal position. In the event that the sculpture does flex the wax fills will separate and require modification. This can be done easily with a small heat spatula and wooden tools. Imperfections in the wood in the form of gouges, scratches and tooling can be seen throughout the form. These imperfections are intended and appear to be an inherent aspect of the sculpture's aesthetic. The sculpture displays a fresh protective wax coating. (This condition report has been provided courtesy of Wilson Conservation)
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.