A Large Parquetry Sideboard

Zebrano and burr walnut veneers in chevron and stripe patterns. Centre doors opening to reveal interior shelving, flanked by two more doors with curving edges on either side. Pull-out shelf in the middle.

We are uncertain as to the origin of this piece. The strong, restrained lines, use of zebrano wood, seamless veneering patterns, curved doors and apparent hinges all point to the work of designer Bruno Paul (Germany, 1873-1968). Paul’s prestigious career spanned Jugendstil and Art Deco, designing for high-profile commercial buildings, ocean liner interiors, and furniture. He also trained famous architects like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe but he was forced to resign from his academic roles in 1933. However, he continued to take on private architectural commissions through the 1930s and post-WWII eras, and we think this sideboard may well be one of his designs from this period.

Europe, c.1940