Jean Claude Dresse Coffee Table in Dark Resin

Jean Claude Dresse, large coffee table, resin, lacquered steel, Belgium, late 1970s

This eccentric coffee table is a masterful creation by Belgian designer Jean Claude Dresse. Every inch of this piece exemplifies Dresse's exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to quality. The black large round tabletop features a dynamic interplay of flowing lines, exuding an air of elegance and sophistication. At its center, a fragmented design composed of rectangular shapes forms a striking contrast to the organic lines featured on the outer part of the design. Its monumental presence is further accentuated by the architecturally constructed legs, which elevate the tabletop with robust vigor. The artistic use of diverse materials and textures bestows upon the coffee table a strong decorative character, blurring the line between functional furniture and a work of art.

Jean Claude Dresse (1946-) is a Belgian artist and designer. He graduated from the art academy in Charleroi. His background of being a visual artist is clearly visible in his furniture designs as he uses artistic techniques such as mosaic and etchings. His oeuvre embodies designs made of precious metals such as brass and copper. Together with his father Marcel, he was a prominent figure in the furniture business in the 1980s and belonged to the artistic Walloon School that focused on glamorous aesthetics. After he and his father were successful as designers Jean Claude embarked on a career as a visual artist. Dresse designed many furniture pieces on commission, which means that a large part of these items is custom-made.