Mrs. Finnegan
Sotheby Park Bernet, New York, June 14, 1980, lot 1020
Bruce and Bobbie Brauston, Cleveland, OH

Overall in very good condition. The shade with only 10-12 cracks to the glass dispersed throughout. There is one piece of green glass along the top shoulder of the shade, just below the reticulated top bronze armature, that appears to have originally been leaded along its top border; this small ½ inch strip of leading appears to be missing (this is assumed by studying the other glass tiles in this location throughout the shade). The casting on the bronze shade armature and raised branches is finely executed, with a rich russet brown and green patina. The shade leading is also beautifully rendered and extremely fine, with the same rich patina. The “Tree Trunk” base displays exceptional casting to the branches articulated on the cushion, and a particularly rich russet brown and green patina with vibrant color. The base with very minimal gentle rubbing to the patina, and a few very light and minor surface scratches consistent with age and gentle use. The base appears to have two modifications executed prior to 1980. The lamp was modified with sockets fitted with pull chains prior to 1980 (this modification is documented in Sotheby’s 1980 photograph of the lamp), and the knob to the base switch was removed. The electric cord was also modified to run through a central aperture through the underside of the base plate (most likely to conceal the cord inside a cabinet or beneath a table). As a result, the original cord aperture on the cushion base was closed, and the patina touched up in this localized area. If desired both of these modifications to the base could be easily reversed. The underside of the base with several small felt glides along the perimeter. A superb example of this rare model, displaying an exceptionally artistic glass selection and fully saturated color palette. Each piece of glass displays distinct artistic nuances, and each quadrant of the shade is equally strong with outstanding visual interest.
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.