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Jules Wabbes for Mobilier Universel Executive Desk in Mutenyé
Jules Wabbes for Mobilier Universel, executive desk, mutenyé, chromed steel, Belgium, 1960s
A superb example of an early executive desk in mutenyé from the 1960s designed by master designer Jules Wabbes for Mobilier Universel. A clearly monumental design with amazing combination of colors in the dark mutenyé wood and bright chrome frame.
Jules Wabbes (1919-1974) was a Belgian furniture designer, architect and professor. He wasn't (as many of his contemporaries) trained as a designer or architect but learned the Craft of designer furniture by sheer necessity. When Wabbes was 24, he opened an antiques shop where some of the furniture was in need of restoration. Therefore, he opened a small workshop where he taught himself how to restore furniture. Alongside restoration he also started to design furniture. His work is aristocratic and modest, and characterised by a sensual use of materials and a clear, almost architectural tectonics. Wabbes developed a line and idiom of its own, averse to the playful and swinging style of many other furniture designs of the postwar period. Wabbes, influenced by American designers such as Edward Wormley, chose to build his furniture with solid wood giving his designs not only a luxurious appearance but also honest, timeless and sophisticated aesthetics.
Please note that this item is in good, used condition. There are some signs of wear and age visible. For further information we kindly ask you to reach out to our design specialists.
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