$25,200
Saridis of Athens United Kingdom / Greece, 1961 walnut, brass 114 w x 19 d x 32 h in (290 x 48 x 81 cm)
The following eight lots were commissioned directly from T.
H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, for a custom interior in Toronto by Philip Johnson. Gibbings passion for Greek furniture began in 1933 with a discovery of a klismos design on a candelabrum in the British Museum. The find was an epiphany for the designer, spurning the development of hundreds of Greek furniture forms by the designer. The designs he found in ancient Greek art were a logical departure from the "indigestible mixture of Queen Anne, Georgian and Spanish styles" prevalent at that time. Gibbings remarked that, "on Greek vases I saw furniture that was young, untouched by time." His custom commissions for the elite produced extraordinary interiors for clients such as Elizabeth Arden, Walter Annenberg and Aristotle Onassis. The superbly executed designs of these lots illustrate Gibbings finest custom work, showcasing his "opulence of understatement." Gibbings, who was chosen by Philip Johnson to collaborate on the residence and office, furnished the private Toronto commission.
A large and finely detailed masterwork by Robsjohn-Gibbings. Metal label to underside: [Designed By - T.H. Robsjohn Gibbings Manufactured by Saridis of Athens] with original vendor's paper label in Greek. more
result: $25,200
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Auctioneer:
Wright Auctions
Date:
2005-09-25
