Marcel Coard

Vallois, Paris
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 2003

Amélie Marcilhac, Marcel Coard Décorateur, Paris, 2012, p. 91 (for the present lot illustrated)

Overall in very good condition. When viewed in person, the alabaster presents with a slightly less yellow hue than seen in the catalogue illustration. The alabaster presents with extraordinary veining and is in very good condition with some light surface scratches, a few minor edge abrasions and light surface soiling commensurate with age and gentle use. The oak base has been refinished at some point in the history of the lamp and is in very good condition with a few minor surface scratches. The metal mount has possibly been replaced and presents with three "baïonnette" sockets. The lamp is fitted with a French plug. The paper shade has been replaced, and the support rests on the bulb. The shade is in very good condition with light surface dirt consistent with age and gentle use. This sculptural lamp epitomizes Coard's African inspiration.
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.

Sotheby's would like to thank Amélie Marcilhac for her assistance with the authentication and cataloguing of this lot. 


From the beginning of his career, Coard’s refined designs attracted the attention of the famed collector and fashion designer Jacques Doucet. From 1928 onwards, Coard created exceptional pieces of furniture with pure forms and rich materials for Doucet’s apartments where they were displayed alongside extraordinary works of art and design by Eileen Gray, Pierre Legrain, Henri Matisse, Amedeo Modigliani and Pablo Picasso.

Thanks to Doucet, Coard entered the world of great Art Deco designers of the time. He was introduced to African and Cubist Art that would become major inspiration for his later work. He developed his own design business and worked for several important private patrons. For each commission, Coard created tailored interiors which were defined by a sense of luxury, preciousness and modernity. He developed a unique personal style, interpreting the influences of his contemporaries into his own designs, and his creations were imbued with African references. 

In the present lot, the softness and delicate veining of the alabaster contrasts beautifully with the geometric lines of the standard and circular oak base. The composition and materials reflect both Cubist and African inspirations, probably guided by Jacques Doucet’s taste, who bought Picasso's great masterwork, Demoiselles d’Avignon. This lamp shares commonalities with works by Pierre Legrain, who also worked for Jacques Doucet.

With its radical geometric lines, delicate execution and iconic material, this lamp appears as a true masterwork, a piece of sculpture even more so than a lamp, making it an exceptional piece for an avant-garde interior.