Jean Arp

Galerie Chalette (Madeleine Lejwa), New York
Dr. Marjorie C. Barnett, Chicago (acquired from the above in 1962 and sold by the estate: Christie's, New York, November 4, 2009, lot 284)
Acquired at the above sale

Éduard Trier, Jean Arp Sculpture, His Last Ten Years, New York, 1968, no. 231, illustration of another cast p. 47

The surface features a mottled brown and golden brown patina. There are a couple very minor imperfections, including some small spots of rubbing, but overall the work is in excellent 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.

Chapeau-forêt is a superb example of the artist’s mature oeuvre. Transcending boundaries to create works which could be interpreted differently by each viewer, Arp created organic, irregular shapes evocative of natural forms. "Often some detail in one of my sculptures, a curve or a contrast that moves me, becomes the germ of a new work. I accentuate the curve or the contrast and this leads to the birth of new forms... Sometimes it will take months, even years, to work out a new sculpture. I do not give up until enough of my life has flowed into its body. Each of these bodies has a definite significance, but it is only when I feel there is nothing more to change that I decide what this is, and it is only then that I give it a name” (quoted in Herbert Read, Arp, London, 1968, p. 87).