Art Deco Sideboard by Michel Dufet for Leandro Martins, 1930s

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Art Deco Sideboard, Michel Dufet for Leandro Martins, 30’s – Brazil

Exceptional Art Deco sideboard, designed by Michel Dufet for … Read more Art Deco Sideboard, Michel Dufet for Leandro Martins, 30’s – Brazil

Exceptional Art Deco sideboard, designed by Michel Dufet for the Leandro Martins house, around 1930. The Frenchman Michel Dufet lived in Rio de Janeiro between 1922 and 1924, where he moved to direct the prestigious decoration firm Red Star.

Made of walnut wood, root wood or lupia and two cylindrical metal legs. Structure of clean geometric shapes, symmetrical composition and balanced volumes, one can even speak of a sculptural character in the conception of the piece. The front features three, semi-hidden doors, which refers to the functional design and discreet integration of storage. The central one presents a marquetry scene that represents a maritime landscape with a sailboat and a port structure. The marquetry technique in contrasting tones provides depth and visual richness. In the upper area, a metallic addition generates the effect of a clear, illuminated sky and creates a striking contrast. The combination of wood and polished metal details is an Art Deco characteristic especially loved by the designer. The legs sit on a rectangular base of the same wood that provides cohesion and a solid architectural presence.

The use of lupia or root wood stands out. Although in many places this type of root wood is known as lupia or lobanillo, it has nothing to do with the root of the tree, but rather with the deformations that the tissue can suffer along the entire stem. These irregularities that appear in the wood have been the object of interest in cabinetmaking and have become a highly valued part for their undoubted value, since they are extremely dense and resistant woods. Furthermore, the whimsical shapes that are drawn on its surface have given rise to a great appreciation for this material, causing great interest within trends such as Art Deco, as they longed to have this peculiar wood endowed with a unique beauty.

Stamped “Leandro Martins & cia” in the back area. The piece appears reproduced in VV.AA., «A casa Art Déco Carioca», Espaço cultural Península, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2006-2007, pp. 36-37. (Image attached). This piece has an attribution mark,
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