Albert Cheuret

Strawbridge's and Clothier, Philadelphia, PA
Private Collection, Philadelphia, PA, acquired from the above, circa 1940
Thence by descent to the present owner

Pierre Kjellberg, Art Déco: Les Maîtres du Mobilier, Le Décor des Paquebots, Paris, 2000, p. 59

Overall very good original condition. Please note this piece is inscribed Albert Cheuret to one of the owl's wings. All the elements on offer in this lot are original to the work and the work retains all the original elements. This piece has been sensitively maintained and the present condition shows that care and attention. The mirror shows minor signs of age and minor discoloration to the silvering, which are consistent with the aging process of the material. The element to the top of the mirror is fitted for electrical, however not presently in use, and possibly lacking portions of the wiring. The marble throughout with nice coloration and in excellent condition with only a few very shallow surface scratches. The bronze elements with some minor discoloration and patination acquired from natural aging, which adds depth to the owl figure. A superb and rare original condition offering.
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.

From his Parisian atelier and select exhibitions, including the celebrated 1925 Exposition International des Arts Décoratif et Indutriels Modernes, Cheuret introduced his distinctive furniture and lighting dominated by abstracted and naturalistic birds.  Cheuret’s ornate furniture designs are heavily informed by his early training under sculptors Jacques Perrin and George Lemâitre.

This console, a rare owl subject by the artist, was acquired by the present family from Strawbridge’s and Clothier, a historic retail store in the heart of Philadelphia.  Founded in 1892, Strawbridge’s became a local institution that offered the most fashionable designs to Philadelphia shoppers.  Its flagship location, opened in 1931, offered a luxurious retail experience within an ornate Beaux Arts architectural masterpiece.  The original owner of the console, an employee at Strawbridge’s for decades, helped create the lavish window designs that delighted shoppers along Market Street.