JEAN ROYÈRE | Set of Three "Croisillon" Armchairs

en suite with the previous and following two lots

Private Collection, Beirut, Lebanon
Acquired from the above by the present owner

Ensembles Mobiliers, vol. 4, 1939, pl. 1 and 2
René Chavance, “Jean Royère ou bon sens et fantaisie,” Mobilier et Décoration, no. 7, October 1949, p. 2 (for a period photograph of the model)
Jean Royère, “La folie des prix français,” Le Décor d’Aujourd’hui, no. 79, 1953, p. 232 (for a period photograph of the model)
Catherine and Stephane de Beyrie and Jacques Ouaiss, Jean Royère, New York, 2000, p. 122
Pierre-Emmanuel Martin-Vivier, Jean Royère, Paris, 2002, p. 118

Overall in very good condition. These iconic and rare pieces by Royère have remained in the same family since the period. All three armchairs have been re-lacquered in keeping with the designer's original intent and presents a warm cream tone, which is beautifully accented by the luminous gilded "croisillon" decoration. The lacquer is in very good condition and presents with occasional minor and light scuffs, consistent with age and use. The inner creases of the proper back corners of the armrests of each armchair with very minor hairline cracks to the lacquered surface, only visible upon close inspection. The brass rails present with a bright gilded surface when seen in person and display minor oxidation, discoloration, and abrasions throughout, not visually distracting. The proper right side of one armchair with one brass element that is lifting very slightly, stable and not visually distracting. The armchairs have been recently reupholstered in a warm, pale grey which is highly complementary to the lacquer and in keeping with the original intended design. An essential part of the "Croisillon" series, these highly decorative armchairs are offered en suite with lots 13, 15, and 16, providing a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire a complete "Croisillon" suite in excellent condition.
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.

A similar model was exhibited at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, for the exhibition "Jean Royère: Décorateur à Paris," October 8, 1999-January 30, 2000.