Paul T. Frankl

Estate of Ira Gershwin, Beverly Hills, CA, circa 1983
Paul Tiberio, Hollywood, CA
Modernism Gallery, San Francisco
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Christopher Long, Paul T. Frankl and Modern American Design, New Haven, 2007, p. 105 (for a related model in mahogany)

Overall very good original condition. The cork surfaces with a few scattered light edge nicks and dings consistent with age and gentle use. There are a few concentrated minor losses to the lower edge of the top, sides of the legs and bottom edges of the feet, the largest measuring 2 ½ inches in length shown in the catalogue illustration to right of the central leg. The lower portion of the three legs with minor evidence of darkening to the surface consistent with natural aging of the material. The piece is distinguished by very good original condition and a wonderful complete provenance since its creation. A extremely rare example of this dynamic design with strong scale and evidence of very gentle use.
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.

Frankl almost certainly made this table for Ira Gershwin after his move to Los Angeles in late 1934, around the same time Gershwin and his brother George moved there.  The model dates from a few years before, from 1930 or 1931, but the earliest versions were in the form of lacquered wood, usually mahogany.  Frankl began experimenting with cork veneers a short time later.  This table, which was a custom design for Gershwin, represents one of his first attempts at a fully veneered cork piece.  Frankl would continue to explore different versions of cork coverings over the next decade and half, sometimes staining the cork, sometimes bleaching it.  The alternating dark and light surface and patterning of this piece, however, is probably unique—in all likelihood in response to Gershwin's wishes.

—Christopher Long