Large Art Deco Precious Wood and Bronze Enfilade, De Coene Frères, 1940s

This large enfilade-type storage cabinet illustrates the excellence of Northern European cabinetmaking at the turn of the 1930s and 1940s. The architecture of the piece relies on a long, two-meter facade opening with three doors, framed by rounded corners that soften the geometric rigor of the furniture. The cabinetmaking work highlights a precious wood veneer whose vertically arranged grain gives rhythm to the front. The metal ornamentation is architectural: discreet brass stringing highlights the crossbars, the cabinet rests on four short tapered legs finished with solid brass sabots, and the central door is magnified by a large chased bronze medallion featuring a floral motif, serving as a keyhole. The execution quality of the veneer, the sturdiness of the frame, and the specific bronze work allow this piece to be formally linked to the De Coene Frères Art Workshops (Kortrijk, Belgium). Founded at the end of the 19th century, this manufactory gained international fame at the 1925 Paris Exhibition of Decorative Arts. In the 1930s and 1940s, De Coene established itself as the undisputed master of Art Deco furniture in Belgium, perfecting the craft of noble woods, deep varnishes, and bronze fittings, producing highly luxurious furniture intended for the upper bourgeoisie. Used condition with visible varnish alterations and slight rubbing, would ideally require surface restoration to regain its original luster.