Small Church Bench by Jan de Jong, 1966

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Description

This rare bench, designed by Jan de Jong for the Pauluskerk in Uden, Netherlands (1966/1968), is a unique piece of … Read more This rare bench, designed by Jan de Jong for the Pauluskerk in Uden, Netherlands (1966/1968), is a unique piece of ecclesiastical furniture with a rich history and design pedigree. The bench was originally commissioned for the church, which is known for its remarkable architecture, and was purchased directly from the parish priest after the church began selling its furniture due to the closing of many churches in recent years and their inability to relocate the furniture.

The bench is made of beautifully crafted hardwood, finished in a bordeaux red lacquer, giving it a deep, rich tone that exudes warmth and character. Over time, the bench has developed a lovely patina, showing signs of its age and use, yet it remains in remarkably good condition, with the wood’s surface and details well-preserved. The bench is punctuated with copper nails, adding a subtle touch of elegance and durability to the design.

A key element of the bench's design is its adherence to the ‘Plastic Number’ principle, a proportional system developed by Dom Hans van der Laan, a Dutch architect and Benedictine monk. This system, based on human dimensions and harmonious ratios, is a hallmark of Van der Laan’s architectural and design philosophy, and Jan de Jong, a close collaborator of Van der Laan, incorporated it into the bench’s structure. The result is a design that feels balanced and timeless, with proportions that are aesthetically pleasing and functional. The Pauluskerk itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, and its furniture, including this bench, reflects the church’s innovative and forward-thinking design ethos. The provenance of the bench, having been directly acquired from the parish, adds to its historical and cultural significance. For those interested in the architecture of the Pauluskerk, pictures accompanying the bench offer a glimpse into the church’s modernist design and the context in which this rare piece of furniture was originally used. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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