Emiel Veranneman Set of Eight 'Osaka' Dining Chairs in Blue Nubuck Leather

Emiel Veranneman for De Coene, set of eight 'Osaka' dining chairs, stained mahogany, nubuck leather, Belgium, 1968.

Few cabinets, tables, or chairs express such a distinct identity as the design creations of Flemish interior architect, furniture designer, and art collector Emiel Veranneman (1924-2003). His work is marked by a strong sense of purpose, bold craftsmanship, and a unique context that demands attention. From the time he introduced his first "social furniture" in 1948, to his later projects, Veranneman's focus shifted from mass production towards designing exclusive, custom-made pieces for individual clients.

From the start of his career, Veranneman played with a number of defining characteristics that run like a common thread throughout his body of work. Veranneman excelled in blending geometric precision with softer, curved forms, transforming rigid squares and rectangles into flowing circles and ovals. He gave mass and volume a sense of spatial lightness while balancing asymmetry with refined elegance.

While studying at the National Higher Institute for Architecture and Decorative Arts (Ter Kameren) in Brussels, Veranneman developed a strong architectural sensibility that he later applied to his furniture designs, exemplified by these dining chairs.

In 1970, the 'Osaka' chair was presented in the Belgian pavilion at the World Exhibition in Osaka, Japan. The overall appearance of the chair is organic and roundish, yet the strict and linear base creates a counterbalanced appearance. The oval-shaped seat is supported by a wooden frame that diverges on both sides, transitioning into the rear legs. The pronounced geometry of the unit contributes to the unit's unique sculptural silhouette. The chairs are newly reupholstered in a fine nubuck leather material in the color ocean blue. The artistry and novelty of this particular set ensure that it can be placed as a visual statement in one's interior.

His furniture could be described as radical and uncompromising – a form of expression uninfluenced by economic constraints, passing trends, or the whims of clients. His creations stand on their own, distinct and unrivaled among his contemporaries. His style is often described as "strict, serious, sober, and calm," qualities that he himself acknowledged as central to his vision. He sought balance, precision, and robust construction, all brought together with impeccable craftsmanship, which he deemed essential. His powerful, sculptural furniture pieces exude a refined sense of equilibrium, combining materiality, color, and artisanal quality in a way that reflects his deep commitment to both form and function. Veranneman's work is not just furniture, but art in its purest, most functional form.

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De Coene was founded in 1887 in Kortrijk (Belgium) by Jozef de Coene, who was at that time 13 years old. In 1895, his younger brother Adolphe joined the company. In their early years, De Coene was inspired by Henry van de Velde, Art Deco and the Arts & Crafts movement. The company made many custom made furnishings which leads to an expansive growth. After World War One, the brother visited the United States where they became acquainted with laminated wood production, and purchased a wood-stripping machine. They were the first company that made triplex in Belgium which led to the ability to mass produce. In 1954, they received the right to produce Knoll furniture. But although the company produced on a large-scale, they were still world famous for their meticulously detailed, high-quality and Art Deco inspired furniture.
 
The mahogany type of this piece does not require an export license.

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