Paul Dupré-Lafon

Gaston Diehl, "Ensembles de Paul Dupré-Lafon," Art et Décoration, 1946, vol. 3, p. 170
Thierry Couvrat Desvergnes, Paul Dupré-Lafon:  Décorateur des Millionnaires, Paris, 1990, p. 72
Alastair Duncan, Art Deco Complete, London, 2009, p. 40 (for the model with a variant top)

Overall in good original condition. The metal frame of the table with wear to the patination, surface scratches and some isolation abrasions, which are visible in the catalogue illustration. One of the legs is lacking the brass detailing to the lower foot which is decorative and therefore the table sits properly lacking this element. The parchment is in good condition as seen in the catalogue illustration. The top with scattered light surface scratches, some showing darker in color at present. The parchment with minor discolorations that are the result of the original adhesive glue staining the paper, and is consistent with the natural aging process of the materials. With a few areas of possible later discoloration, which are visible in the catalogue illustration, the largest measuring approximately four inches in length. With some light rubbing to parchment, but the parchment throughout remains intact and without tears. An elegant low table design by Dupré-Lafon that remains in good original condition.
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.

Paul Dupré-Lafon introduced a unique vision to the Parisian audience of the 1930s.  Trained as an architect at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Marseilles, Dupré-Lafon undertook private commissions of entire interiors rather than contributing to the public exhibitions preferred by his contemporaries.  Upon moving to Paris in 1923, he began working for affluent clients introduced by his classmate, Georges Willameur.  His rooms revealed an elegant modern aesthetic achieved by minimal statement-making furniture.  Designs by Dupré-Lafon maintained a consistency of function paired with a simple elegance from juxtaposed decadent materials, including the finest leathers from Hermès, crisp limed oaks and industrial hardware.  Dupré-Lafon would continue his collaboration with Hermes throughout his career and incorporate their exceptional leather.

At a time when lavish decoration attracted attention in the design of others, Dupré-Lafon’s works stood resolutely in contrast.  The rarity of his aesthetic and superior craftsmanship proclaimed the expertise of this ebeniste and his designs became the coveted aesthetic of the premier families of the era.

The following ten lots represents one of the largest collections of designs by Paul Dupré-Lafon to be offered at auction in the United States.

This lot is sold with an original certificate of authenticity from the legal successors of Paul Dupré-Lafon.