Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann

en suite with the preceding lot

The winning bidder of the lot will receive copies of the following documents in the family archives: 1. a copy of the certificate of authenticity for this work, signed by Ruhlmann and sent to the client on September 15, 1933; 2. a copy of the design drawing of the model; 3. a copy of the Ruhlmann studio photograph of the model. All three of these documents are illustrated in the online catalogue, with the latter two illustrated in the preceding lot, which is en suite with this work. The winning bidder of the lot will also receive copies of the following documents in the family archives: 1. First proposal letter from Gaston Rousseau, Maison Ruhlmann dated 30 August 1928; 2. Revised proposal letter from Gaston Rousseau, Maison Ruhlmann dated 17 January 1929; 3. Letter from the clients to Rousseau confirming the order on 12 March 1929; 4. Letter from Rousseau dated 9 July 1929 acknowledging receipt of down payment; 5. First invoice from Maison Ruhlmann, dated 21 August 1929; 6. Final invoice from Maison Ruhlmann, dated 18 January 1930. With two keys for the side locks, and one key for the five central locks. Overall the work is in superb condition and retains its original finish. There is one area of veneer loss, approximately ¼ inch wide and ½ inch high, to the case between the top two central drawers. There is also extremely minor loss to the finish along the edges and corners of the five central drawers, similar to the preceding lot. The top drawer fitted for silver. The top of this cabinet was recently cleaned by a professional restorer, and the finish does not have the same minor blemishes seen in the same areas of the preceding lot. The ivory keyholes, borders, and spiral decorations are in excellent original condition, with only minor yellowing and surface dirt. Minor cracking to the spirals, and minor cracks to two of the dentils that comprise the border. One of the silvered bronze feet has been replaced by our restorer, and the other three feet have new screws.
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.