ÉMILE-JACQUES RUHLMANN | "Lit Soleil"

model no. 542ar and 807nr

Overall in very good original condition. The scale and overall presence of this rare work is all the more impressive when viewed in person. The outer two rings of the headboard have a gentle undulating curve that add another dimensional quality to the work, inherent in the design and are not visible in the catalog illustration. The textural quality of the Macassar ebony more pronounced when viewed in person. The wooden surfaces with minor scattered scuffs, scratches, nicks and bumps as is typical with age. The front of the footboard with a gentle and uniform faint fading that is not visually disruptive and retains scattered scuffs, scratches and darker marks visible in the catalogue illustration. The proper front left side of the footboard with an area of fine hairline cracks which have been professionally and sensitively stabilized, partially visible in the catalogue illustration. The upper proper left corner with a minor chip measuring approximately 3/4 in. The lower inside proper left edge of the proper left front foot with an area of veneer loss measuring approximately 4 3/4 in., visible in the catalogue illustration but not immediately visible in person. The frame rails with minor scattered chips and losses to the veneer, concentrated to the inner edge, the largest to the front proper right rail, measuring approximately 3/8 x 6in, and was professionally and sensitively repaired at some point. The rectangular portion beneath the radial element of the headboard with minor scattered scuffs, nicks and scratches. The lower left and right sides of this section with minor hairline cracks and a few isolated minor losses to the veneer, measuring approximately 15 in. each and not immediately visible. The proper left carved oval located where the "sunburst" headboard terminates with a hairline crack running vertically approximately 4 in. and is stable. The radial portion of the headboard with minor shrinkage to the veneer, is stable and visible on close inspection. Carefully preserved, all of the above are consistent with age and gentle use and a testament to its unique history. An extraordinary masterwork by Ruhlmann, the Lit Soleil displays France's most accomplished ébeniste of the Art Deco period at the height of his powers. The labour intensive production and extreme quality radiate throughout the work.
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.