Christie’s Presents December Design Sales
NEW YORK – Christie’s New York is pleased to present a series of Design sales in December, showcasing an exceptional selection of masterworks by leading names in 20th and 21st century art, architecture, and design. A public exhibition will be on view ahead of the auctions in Christie’s galleries at Rockefeller Center starting 3 December.
DESIGN | 9 DECEMBER
Highlighting the live sale of Design is a group of five outstanding sculptures by Harry Bertoia from the Private Collection of Florence Knoll Bassett, a selection that offers a rare glimpse into the relationship between artist and patron, designer and supporter. Christie’s also has the distinct honor to present two significant works by Alberto Giacometti from the Collection of a Member of the Matisse Family, ‘Lampe Coupe aux deux figures’ and ‘Grande Feuille’ floor lamp.
The first half of the 20th century is embodied by important early glass by Emile Gallé and Daum from the Collection of Dr. Thomas Chua. Another notable collection in the sale, Property from the Estate of Ruth S. Stanton, offers a unique opportunity to explore iconic designs by French master cabinetmaker Jean Royère including beautiful straw marquetry and models from the highly desirable ‘Ondulation’ and ‘Croisillon’ series. Other masterworks by the artist include an exceptional ‘Ours Polaire’ salon suite.
French iconic designs are further showcased within the auction, including a highly important suite of furniture by André Groult, metalworks by Albert Cheuret, and rare works by Eugène Printz, Alexandre Noll, Jean Prouvé and Charlotte Perriand.
The second-half 20th century is represented by iconic works by Les Lalanne, including a ‘Moutons de Laine’ sheep and two ottomans, and a ‘Carpe d’Or’ by François-Xavier Lalanne, and a superb ‘Crocoseat’ chair by Claude Lalanne. Finally, the late 20th/21st century is ushered in with contemporary glass works by American greats William Morris and Dan Dailey, among others, Property from the Estate of Debbie and Bud Menin.
TIFFANY | 10 DECEMBER
On 10 December, Christie’s Design in New York presents Tiffany, our dedicated auction to Louis Comfort Tiffany, Tiffany Studios and the firm that inspired the artistry of glass making. The auction will offer extraordinary designs by Tiffany Studios including the spectacular ‘Apple Blossom’ table lamp, A Masterpiece from the Silverman Collection; an early and rare ‘Elaborate Peony’ table lamp from the Collection of Dr. Robert B. Koehl; an extraordinary ‘Clematis’ floor lamp; and a majestic Seven-Light table lamp on a rare ‘Arch and Leaf’ silvered-bronze base. The sale also includes several rare desk sets from an important private collection.
Our highlighted collection, The Collection of Dr. Thomas Chua includes an impressive ‘Laburnum’ floor lamp, a spectacular ‘Witness to the Divine’ landscape window designed by Tiffany Studios for the Church of the Unity, Springfield, Massachusetts, and a complementary window ‘Whence Cometh My Help’ by The Church Glass and Decorating Company of New York, among others.
