Gustav Stickley

with central drawer and drop-down compartments on each side

Private Collection, Watch Hill, Rhode Island, circa 1901
Thence by descent
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Stephen Gray, The Early Work of Gustav Stickley, New York, 1987, p. 43

Overall very good condition. The original leather top has been recently professionally stabilized and presents beautifully when viewed in person. The leather with surface scratches, abrasions, discolorations, some water damage, wear, and some instances of craquelure with associated minor loss to the leather surface, all consistent with age and use. The leather encircling the lateral edges of the table top presents with some dryness, rippling, cracks, surface scratches and abrasions, and wear to the edges with some associated minor losses, the largest located near one corner and measuring approximately 1/2 inch wide. The original brass tacks are in very good condition, some present with some oxidation. The wood surfaces throughout retain their original finish and present with scattered minor surface scratches, abrasions, light wear, some occasional scuffing, and a few minor age hairline cracks consistent with age and use. The feet with some light surface soiling. The desk is complete with a central drawer and a drop-down compartment on both sides; all lack keys. An incredibly rare work with provenance dating back to the period.
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.

An example of this rare eight-leg writing table model is in the collection of Crab Tree Farm, Lake Bluff, Illinois.