THE RESULTS ARE IN: Sotheby’s 20th Century Decorative Arts & Design Sale

25th November ’09, 2:30 pm

Sotheby’s
Rue du Faubourg Saint Honore, Paris

Sotheby’s attempt to take advantage of the current trend for mid-century masterpieces finished with strong, but less than thrilling results on Wednesday afternoon in Paris. Their sale of significant Art Deco works brought it a total of €3,038,750 selling 55 of the available 79 lots.

Alberto Giacometti’s rare suspension light was the top earner bringing in a staggering €588,750 (pre-sale estimate €40,000-€60,000). Charlotte Perriand’s unique edition of the ‘table extensible modèle de luxe’ also sold for well above its pre-sale estimate at €504,750 (pre-sale estimate €250,000-€400,000). Jean Dunand’s ‘Contraste de Formes’ a folding lacquered double door rounded out the top three bringing in €240,750 (pre-sale estimate €200,000-€300,000).

These three pieces were all highly promoted on Sotheby’s shortlist of highlights before the sale,  proving that the provenance of a piece is becoming more and more important for making sales in the current market. Other highlights include Jean-Michel Frank’s ‘Aragon’ sanded oak low table that sold for €168,750 (pre-sale estimate €80,000 - €120,000), Jean Royère’s pair of ‘Boule’ armchairs that sold for €144,750 (pre-sale estimate €90,000-€110,000), and Jean Dunand’s occasional table that sold for €132,750 (pre-sale estimate €60,000-€80,000).

Sotheby’s next big design sale will be in a couple weeks in New York and it will have a more contemporary focus. Stay tuned to DeTnk for highlights from this and other upcoming sales.

For more information please visit www.sothebys.com