Guillerme et Chambron "Portefeuille" Oak Dining Table for Votre Maison, France ca 1960s (sold)
Guillerme et Chambron "Portefeuille" Oak Dining Table for Votre Maison, France ca 1960s (sold)
Guillerme et Chambron’s table designs are well-known for their distinctive appearance and multifunctionality; this model in particular shows how decorative design and functionality were equally important for the designers, being as sensitive to the use of furniture in everyday life as to the creation of innovative design.
This table has an airy and practical design, which is dominated by the natural beauty of the material and the creative, yet subtle, joinery. The top is held by an elaborate lower structure composed of four carved legs connected by a stretcher and sculptural elements. Crafted from Guillerme et Chambron’s signature material, blonde oak, this table features a clean, geometric-shaped top with the slats of wood arranged so that the grain of the oak is showcased. On one side, the top can be easily be folded over to provide additional space to the interior.
The design shows Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron’s unique visions in the table’s decorative and functional details. Compared to the duo’s other models, this table is more pared down, relying mostly on its decorative legs. Unlike in most mid-century models, ornamentation was an important part of the duo’s creations, but - while apparent - they were never overwhelming. This balance between form, ornament, and functionality kept the pieces’ elegance, as is the case with this dining table.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
Folded:
44.88 in W x 42.91 in D x 28.94 in H
114 cm W x 109 cm D x 73.5 cm H
Unfolded:
90.16 in W x 42.91 in D x 28.94 in H
229 cm W x 109 cm D x 73.5 cm H
About the Designers:
Robert Guillerme graduated in 1934 from the École Boulle where he excelled in architecture and furniture design. After the Second World War he moved to Lille, in the north of France, where he decorated homes and designed furniture for the well regarded Rogier workshops.
In 1948, Guillerme was joined by his long-time friend, decorator Jacques Chambron in Lille. The following year Guillerme and Chambron met master cabinetmaker Émile Dariosecq, owner of a woodworking shop and the company Votre Maison was born. Together, they defined and imposed a new furniture concept. Thanks to their distinctive creativity, originality, and quality, the Votre Maison quickly became well-known.
The Votre Maison marked the history of French design. Guillerme drew the furniture designs while Chambron played the part of salesman, welcoming and advising clients. The power duo was complemented by Dariosecq, whose workshop took charge of the manufacturing. Together, they defined new furnishings concepts. Well-crafted chair back, polished wood and thick cushions make the reputation of their armchairs and sofas. Votre Maison continued to produce furniture right into the 20th century, with Jacques’s son Hervé Chambron, a designer and graduate of the École Boulle, having taken the over in 1983. ~H.
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet were a French design duo who worked together during the 20th century. They were known for their innovative use of natural, sustainable materials, including rope, wicker, and bamboo. The duo’s work was heavily influenced by the Modernist movement, which sought to create functional and streamlined designs that were accessible to a wider audience.
Audoux & Minet’s pieces are characterised by a strong sense of craftsmanship, with each piece being handmade by the designers themselves or by skilled artisans. This dining table showcases a long rectangular top finished in warm wood veneer, its broad uninterrupted surface displays the grain. The top sits above thick base covered in a tightly woven natural fibre that introduces an immediate depth of tone and texture. The fibre flows across the supports in beautiful braided patterns, emphasising the bold and solid look. The rope is made into a geometric pattern which breaks up the woven surface to create a beautiful rhythm within the structure. The contrast of materials is central to the table’s character: the smooth, richly grained wooden top stands out against the coarse, rough and natural fibre below, allowing two very different surfaces to define the piece.
Today, Audoux and Minet's designs are highly sought after by collectors and are considered important examples of mid-century modern design. Furniture pieces like this table stand out through their unique textures, and their materials, as well as their classic charm.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the material, the item has some marks and scratches on the tabletop. Additional imperfections like chips, dents or discolouration may be present.
Dimensions:
67.12 in W x 33.46 in D x 29.13 in H
170.5 cm W x 85 cm D x 74 cm H