ALBERTO GIACOMETTI | Masque aux serpents sconce, designed in 1934

plaster and metal

Galerie Vallois, Paris
Private collection, Switzerland, acquired from the above in 1996

Léopold Diego Sanchez, Jean-Michel Frank, Paris, 1997, cover and p. 239
Pierre-Emmanuel Martin-Vivier, Jean-Michel Frank, l'étrange luxe du rien, Paris, 2006, pp. 198 and 250

Good overall condition. The plaster presents with a few light scratches and light abrasions to the finish (including on the nose, most likely due to handling wear). The back of the sconce presents with an area displaying a few more significant scratches on approximately 1x3 cm, most likely caused by the hanging of the sconce. The finish presents with some very light craquelures and the plaster presents with some hairline cracks, mostly concentrated along the applied elements ("snakes", bottom of the sconce...), all consistent with age and use. The surface is soiled overall, especially within the sconce, as consistent with age and use. The sconce is sold with a metal liner including a socket. The internal edge of the sconce presents with a few small chips of finish caused by the liner and barely invisible when the liner is set. The sconce is pierced for electricty. Sotheby's does not guarantee electrical components and suggests having all wiring inspected by a licensed electrician.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This lot is sold with a certificate from the Alberto and Annette Giacometti Foundation.