Jacques Adnet

chromed metal, smoked mirror, ebonised wood, enclosing two frieze drawers and an adjustable shelf, doors with unusual sliding mechanism

Mobilier et Décoration, January 1933, p. 465 (for an illustration of this design)
Alain-René Hardy and Gaëlle Millet, Jacques Adnet, Paris, 2009, p. 199 (for an illustration of this design with gilt metal mounts)

A stylish and striking model of good overall appearance. Smoked mirror to front, top and sides have been replaced. Ebonised feet retouched. Minor old marks, wear and scratches to chromed frame and base. With two keys. Doors slide on unusual rotating runners - instead of each being on different runners, which leaves the front doors stepped when closed, they can be turned slightly and then slid which means the front of this piece is a straight line when closed, maintaining its purity of line. A rare piece which is ready for display and use.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The architect and the interior decorator Jacques Adnet (1900-1984) has been acclaimed for his furniture and lighting designs based on the principles of functionalism. He trained at the École des Arts Décoratifs in Paris with Henri Rapin and began working for Maurice Dufrêne in 1920. In 1922 Jacques and his twin brother Jean joined the design studio La Maîtrise at the Galeries Lafayette, where they specialised in designing simple functional furniture crafted from rare woods and fine fabrics.

In 1928 Adnet left La Maîtrise to direct Compagnie des Arts Français, succeeding founder members Louis Süe and André Mare. Adnet refocused the firm with a new modernist vision, adopting metal and glass, chromium plating and simplified geometric designs, as exemplified by the present lot.