Carlo Bugatti

Marie-Madeleine Massé, Carlo Bugatti au Musée d'Orsay, Paris, 2001, p. 91 (for a similar model)

Overall in good condition consistent with use and the aging of the large number of materials used to create this chair. The wooden frame in good condition with some minor chips and losses to the edges, consistent with use. With some rubbing to the stained portions on the arms. The inlays are overall very stable. One area of metal inlay to the outer edge decorative patterning on the proper right arm is lifting and is presently showing with four inches pulled away and twisted, but intact. Scattered throughout the chair approximately ten missing small inlays, in which the absence has been painted to lessen the appearance of the loss. These losses are most prevalent in the decorative inlays closest to the bottom edge of the feet, the edges of the feet and the outer edges of the arms. With an old stable crack to the proper left side of the frame adjactent to the where the seat meets the frame. This appears stable. In this same area there is remnants of a stained decorative scheme that is not evident elsewhere on the chair, and appears that small portions have been rubbed away or lost. The parchment circular inlay at the backrest with a considerable tear and minor losses as seen in the catalogue illustration. The parchment of the seat has been lacquered and is therefore stable, and with surface dirt. With an area of repair to the underseat which looks like a very old fabric patch. One of the rope tassles is partially detached to the proper left side.
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.