Jean Dunand and Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann

The present dining table constitutes perhaps one of the most spectacular examples of the close partnership between Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann and Jean Dunand. Aside from its monumental proportions, the dining table further distinguishes itself by its clean and simple lines as well as an overall economy of form that is particularly original and modern for Ruhlmann at the time. The emphasis here is evidently placed on the lacquer treatment of the table which covers all surfaces of the table including the octagonal legs, providing the design with a highly textural and colorful finish with tones ranging from dark ebony to bright auburn. Dunand often collaborated with Ruhlmann as a lacquerer (as evidenced by another important piece in the Perelman Collection, lot 111), providing beautiful lacquer coatings to pieces of furniture made in the Ruhlmann ateliers. Past documented owners of the present table include Tina and Michael Chow as well as Karl Lagerfeld, who sold it at auction in 1975—on the occasion of which a certificate of authenticity from Bernard Dunand was provided. Being the only example of the form recorded, the present lot may be a unique production of the design—making it all the more prized and significant.