Kem Weber

Mr. and Mrs. John Bissinger, San Francisco, circa 1929
Sotheby's New York, December 18, 2004, lot 691
Acquired from the above by the present owner

I. B. Gorham, ''Comfort Convenience Colour: Examples from the Designs of Kem Weber on the Pacific West Coast,'' Creative Art, October 1930, p. 251 (for a period photograph showing this club chair in situ in the Bissinger residence)

Overall very good condition. The original paint of the chair presents with minor scattered scuffs and nicks, consistent with age and gentle use. These are largely concentrated to the armrests and lower portions of the design. The proper left armrest with a white scuff along the top (approx. 6 ¾ in. long). There are vertical hairlines present on each foot of the chair (and visible in the catalogue illustration) as well as one arm, likely due to shrinkage of the carcass wood joints over time, and there has been some very minor associated lacquer loss in these areas. This is common and expected age appropriate wear. The upholstery is new and in good, clean condition. A remarkable, museum quality chair; the only example of the model known to exist.
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.