ÉMILE-JACQUES RUHLMANN | "Ambassade" Desk, Model No. 1041AR and 1501NR

with pull-out trays on both sides

Private Collection 
Christie's New York, June 13, 2006, lot 71
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Alain Lesieutre, The Spirit and Splendour of Art Deco, Secaucus, NJ, 1978, fig. 26
Florence Camard, Ruhlmann: Master of Art Deco, New York, 1983, p. 163
Alastair Duncan, Art Deco Furniture, London, 1997, pl. 217
Pierre Kjellberg, Art Deco: Les Maîtres du Mobilier & Le Décor des Paquebots, Paris, 2000, p.  212
Emmanuel Bréon and Rosalind Pepall, Ruhlmann: Genius of Art Deco, Paris, 2004, pp. 16, 19 and 26
Emmanuel Bréon, Jacques-Emile Ruhlmann, Furniture, the Designer's Archives, Paris, 2004, pp. 94-95
Florence Camard, Ruhlmann, Paris, 2009, pp. 164-166 and 245
Alastair Duncan, Art Deco Complete, New York, 2009, p. 81

Overall good condition. The wood displays a rich and warm brown hue, and presents with scattered minor surface scratches and abrasions, consistent with age and gentle use. The wood with a few scattered faint hairline cracks at the corners above the legs, some of which appear to have been previously sensitively stabilized at some point in the history of the piece, consistent with age. The gilt bronze surfaces present with some oxidation, surface scratches, and some light wear to the patina, consistent with age and use. The leather top is likely replaced and presents with minor abrasions, accretions, discoloration, and surface scratches, consistent with age and use. The piece contains three drawers with locks and two pull-out trays on either side; the handle of one of the trays is slightly loose, stable. A majestic desk that exemplifies the refined elegance of Ruhlmann's designs. Please note: this lot is sold with a key.
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.