Eugène Printz

Together with a French Art Deco Chair

Eric Philippe, Paris
Wolfgang Joop, Monaco
Sotheby's New York, Property from the Collection of Wolfgang Joop, December 12, 2003, lot 332
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Art et Décoration, January 1935, n.p. (for a related model)
Guy Bujon and Jean-Jacques Dutko, Eugène Printz, Paris, 1986, pp. 155 and 240 (for a related model)

The desk overall in good original condition. The desk presents with three drawers and two sliding tablettes. The top of each tablettes with a few surface scratches consistent with handling. The proper right sliding tablette opens with some resistance. The wooden surfaces with scattered rubbing, scuffs, scratches and a few minor chips concentrated to the outer edges consistent with age and use. The center of the side panels with gentle fading and minor spotting as partially visible in the catalogue illustration. The rear proper right edge with a few minor white paint marks, shallow dents and a minor chip measuring approximately ¼ in2, not visually distracting. The leather top is likely original and presents with scattered scuffs, scratches, staining and discoloration, visible in the catalogue illustration. The leather with a few darker circular stains, the largest measuring approximately 5 in. in diameter, and a circular green stain near the center measuring approximately 2 ¼ in. in diameter. The corners of the leather with minor lifting. The leather portion of the rear proper left side panel has been professionally and sensitively repaired, the area measuring approximately 1 ½ x 1 ¼ in. The bronze legs retain their original patina, with minor rubbing and oxidation concentrated to the bases of the feet. The key is missing. The chair in overall good original condition and with a design which complements the desk. The wooden elements with minor scattered scuffing, scratches, chips and gentle fading, concentrated to the bases of the feet and consistent with age and use. The front proper right leg with a chip to one edge, measuring approximately 1 in. The original leather surfaces with scattered rubbing, staining, fading and discoloration throughout, consistent with age and use. The joins of the backrest and seat are slightly loose. An iconic design by Printz in in original condition with very good provenance.
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.