Jean Claude Dresse Mosaic Coffee Table in Brass and Agate

Jean Claude Dresse, coffee table, brass, lacquered steel, agate, Belgium, 1970s

Enchanting coffee table designed by Belgian artist Jean Claude Dresse in the 1970s. This rectangular table in brass with rounded contours is easily recognizable as a design by Dresse, displaying high attention for detail and meticulous handiwork. Due to the distinctive casting process, the top is irregular and slightly free-form, with smooth, rounded edges that give it an organic silhouette. The different abstract forms are hand-hammered and diverge as flowing water, resulting in a magical and whimsy composition with a luxurious touch. Two agate stones fit perfectly within irregular, organically shaped recesses, serving as focal points amidst a framework of abstract patterns. These cutouts are precisely shaped to match the contours of the agate stones. The fluid, irregular form of the agate juxtaposes the structured, angular pattern of the metal tiling, emphasizing both the raw natural beauty of the stone and the precision of the metalwork. The base features a robust, architecturally inspired structure defined by a rectilinear, angular design with distinct concave angles. This geometric form provides a striking contrast to the subtly organic, free-flowing shape of the brass tabletop. Along the side of the top, there is a signature inscribed, reading "Dresse".

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.

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