Charlotte Perriand

Galerie 54, Paris
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Mary McLeod, ed., Charlotte Perriand: An Art of Living, New York, 2003, p. 231
Jacques Barsac, Charlotte Perriand: Un Art d'Habiter, 1903-1959, Paris, 2005, pp. 371-379 (for drawings, discussions and color simulations of the model)
Peter Sulzer, Jean Prouvé:  Oeuvre Complète/Complete Works, Volume 3: 1944-1954, Basel, 2005, cat. no. 1240.2
Galerie Patrick Seguin, Jean Prouvé, Paris, 2007, vol. 2, pp. 462 and 494-495
Jean Prouvé: The Poetics of the Technical Object, Milan, 2007, p. 326

Overall very good original condition. As with all examples of this model, the wooden legs are later. The original design incorporated concrete legs were a fixed part of the interior of the Maison du Mexique and the wooden legs were added when the pieces were removed from the dormitory. The wooden elements of the bookcase with expected scratches, nicks, dings areas of discoloration and surface dirt. The metal components with some evidence of possible repainting, especially to the black painted dividers. The dividers show scratches and minor losses to paint that all appear consistent with age and use, some of which are visible in the catalogue illustration. The doors with minor isolated discolorations, slight warping, rubbing and surface dirt as seen in the catalogue illustration. Most of the sliding elements move with ease and with some possibly replaced handles, which appear darker in tone than the oak shelf elements. The oak on the present example is light in color, and appears accurately in the catalogue illustration. As each of the models were used in a dormitory setting, the present example retains very light evidence of use and has acquired a nice patina over time.
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.