Elsa Tennhardt

Private Collection, circa 1948
Thence by descent

"Gifts That Solve the Man Problem," Harper's Bazaar, December 1928, p. 92
Pat Kirkham, ed., Women Designers in the USA, 1900-2000, New Haven, 2000, p. 233
Marilyn F. Friedman, Selling Good Design, New York, 2003, p. 96 (for a related bowl included in a living room designed by Eugene Schoen for the Macy's Exposition, 1928)

Overall in very good original condition. Each of the elements with some light surface scratches, minor tarnish and some very minute spots of discoloration. The present example has been in Europe since its purchase in the 1940s and has been very sensitively maintained. As seen in the catalogue illustration, two of the cups with slight bend to the stems and therefore the cups are presently sitting slightly askew, one worse than the other. The tray with the original glass insert, with some shallow surface scratches that appear the result of use. The ice bucket with some light discolorations to the interior, possibly from use. This same element with a discoloration to the exterior measuring 1 inch in diameter presently showing darker in appearance, and a smaller adjacent discoloration. The shaker with some light residue to the interior (concentrated primarily to one band, which appears the result of use) and light surface scratches to the body of the exterior. With a very slight indentation to one side edge of foot, which is subtle and only visible upon close inspection. There are two minor areas of discoloration to the exterior surface of the top of the shaker, which appears the result of adhesive possibly, which has removed part of the surface finish. These two areas measuring approximately ½ x 1 inch, and appear slightly yellower than the rest of the service presently. The cork element to the interior of the top of the shaker with one minor shallow loss measuring approximately ½ inch in length and less than a 1/8 inch in depth. The majority of the cork is in tact, although slightly dry to the touch. This set is a rare work by this designer to appear on the auction market, which displays beautifully in person. A superb example of American Modern design.
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.