Lot 392 , André Arbus (1903-1969) A fine and rare Art Deco serpentine commode, W.5ft D.1ft 6in. H.2ft 3in.
André Arbus (1903-1969) A fine and rare Art Deco serpentine commode, entirely covered with parchment, fitted nine drawers with bold ivory stringing, escutcheons and knob handles, on a gilt base, circa 1937-1940, W.5ft D.1ft 6in. H.2ft 3in.
Estimate £8,000-12,000
Publications:
Yvonne Brunhammer, 'Andre Arbus architecte-decorateur des annees 40', Norma edition, Paris, 1996, for similar examples p.16, 28, 98 & 99.
'Ensembles mobiliers' edition Charles Moreau - volume 2 - 1937.
'Mobilier & Decoration' p.100.
For two lesser examples at auction see:
Christie's, Lot 89, December 8, 2004 and Aguttes, lot 301, June 17, 2015.
This piece of furniture looks to have been untouched for many years and probably never interferred with, the parchment covering shows some discolouration, dirt spotting throughout but does all look to be original and intact, equally the ivory knob handles have some fine splits running through them but all look original and complete, escutcheon is the same and the thick ivory stringing that runs between the drawers is in similarly good order, offset lock is present but no key, drawers are lined in teak or mahogany, the gilt foot looks to have been overpainted in a dull gold painted finish and suffers from some small chips and dents, damp marks show in the parchment across the bottom of the lower drawers. A very rare and unusual piece of furniture that should restore to good effect.
Comes for sale from a private property in Eastbourne
Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.
Sold for £20,000