Brutalist Black Square Polychrome Coffee Table, Europe 20th Century (sold)
Brutalist Black Square Polychrome Coffee Table, Europe 20th Century (sold)
The essence of Brutalism, an architectural movement originating in the mid-20th century, is captured in the un-embellished design of this coffee table. It proudly showcases raw, bold geometric forms, and a prioritization of function over adornment. Both visually and technically, this piece celebrates the inherent beauty of the material.
The atypical choice of material - polychrome - is created by layering multiple materials like paint, gesso, varnish, or even metallic gilding, atop a foundation for an attractive laminated effect. The result is a strong, durable table that looks and feels like textured stone but is lighter and more resistant.
Exemplifying the principles of Brutalist design, this coffee table embodies a philosophy centered around the use of rough materials and a commitment to functionality. Born amidst a period of architectural exploration, the philosophy that guides the design of this table exudes an almost industrial allure, seamlessly blending form and purpose with a rugged authenticity, relying on its materials to convey its distinctive aesthetic.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some visible marks and scratches.
Dimensions:
35.04 in W x 35.04 in D x 13.78 in H
89 cm W x 89 cm D x 35 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
Made upon order. Lead time ca 8-10 weeks
This Água table by contemporary artist Domingos Tótora, is an exceptional piece. The name, meaning water in Portuguese speaks for itself as the sight of this table’s design is akin to the process of sediment settling into a riverbed. There may be no artist who demonstrates sustainability as wholly as Tótora. His masterworks have journeyed full circle, narrating the story of sustainable earth without uttering a single word.
Designed by Domingos Tótora, the Água Table demonstrates lightness through heavy elements. With his special but traditional technique, this table was created with recycled cardboard with added graphite pigment. A smooth, matte surface and the organic shape characterize the designer’s work and are witness to his extensive experience in object design. During the creation process Tótora reduces the cardboard to a semi-liquid pulp, hand moulds it into the desired shape and dries the almost finished product in the Brazilian sun. With a smooth finish, the three large “stones” and the glass top evoke the image of a river with crystal clear waters. Sustainability is essential for the Brazilian artist and accordingly, this table was made in a certified sustainable way. In this beautiful and labour-intensive process, the cardboard that originated as wood is essentially brought back a full cycle by taking on a wood-like quality again. For Tótora “sustainability happens through actions and not words”.
In 2008, this table-sculpture won first place and an honourable mention in Craft + Design and second place in the Brazilian Object. A year later, it was ranked first in the Sustainable Design category at Top XXI and won the Brazil Design Awards, in the furniture category. In 2010, recognition came at the Ibero-American Design Biennial in Spain.
Condition:
New.
Dimensions:
61.02 in ⌀ x 12.99 in H
155 cm ⌀ x 33 cm H
About the designer:
Domingos Tótora (1960-) is a contemporary Brazilian designer whose work falls between art and design. Born and raised in the mountainous region of Maria da Fé, nature is an essential part of Tótora’s aesthetic. Being true to nature means that imperfections are a welcome part of Tótora’s designs, embracing asymmetry and unevenness in the spirit of wabi-sabi.
Following his studies in São Paulo, Tótora found inspiration on the streets in the form of discarded cardboards. He created a process in which cardboard can be recycled by breaking it down to small pieces, transforming it to cellulose plaster. With the addition of water, glue and natural pigments, the cardboard can be shaped into new forms. Through this sustainable process, waste cardboards are turned into a wood-like material. Tótora and his small team believe sustainability happens through actions and not words.
His studio, Domingos Tótora Estúdio de Artes Design, was founded in 2005 in his hometown, Maria da Fé. The beauty of his work manifests itself in its philosophy of creation and respect for the environment. The production process of Tótora’s designs is 100% manual and the cardboard he uses is fully recycled. Domingos Tótora is a true mixture of artist, designer, and craftsman. In recent years, the originality and elegance of his creations have been recognized in several exhibitions. ~H.