Robert Kuo "Dragon Swirl" Bar Cabinet - Hand Repoussé Copper & Black Lacquer, Attributed

Details

Description

A Masterwork by Renowned Chinese-American Artist Robert Kuo, Atrributed

This exceptional "Dragon Swirl" bar cabinet represents Robert Kuo at his … Read more A Masterwork by Renowned Chinese-American Artist Robert Kuo, Atrributed

This exceptional "Dragon Swirl" bar cabinet represents Robert Kuo at his finest—a stunning marriage of ancient Chinese metalworking techniques and contemporary design sensibility. Acquired through McGuire at the San Francisco Design Center in 2010, this piece exemplifies Kuo's mastery of repoussé, the traditional art of hand-hammering decorative relief onto metal.

Design & Craftsmanship

The cabinet features a mesmerizing swirling pattern across the entire front facade, created through meticulous hand-repoussé work on copper. Each flowing curve and spiral was individually hammered by skilled artisans trained in centuries-old techniques, creating a three-dimensional relief that captures and reflects light in constantly changing ways. The copper front panel contrasts dramatically with the sleek black lacquer frame and top, creating a sophisticated Art Deco-meets-Asian aesthetic that has become Robert Kuo's signature style.
About the Artist

Robert Kuo (b. 1949, Beijing) is internationally recognized as one of the foremost contemporary designers working in traditional Chinese metalworking techniques. Born into a family of metalworkers, Kuo apprenticed at his father's cloisonné workshop in Taiwan from age 15 before emigrating to the United States in 1973. His work bridges ancient Chinese artistic traditions with 21st-century design, earning him the designation as "the Imperial craftsman of the 21st Century."

Kuo's pieces are held in prestigious collections including the Smithsonian's Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and can be found in luxury hotels worldwide including the Singapore Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco's Hotel Palomar, and New York's Four Seasons. His work has been represented by elite showrooms including Baker Furniture and McGuire, and has been exhibited at the Pacific Design Center in Los Angeles.

Repoussé Technique

Repoussé is an ancient metalworking technique that involves hand-hammering sheet metal from the reverse side to create raised designs on the front. This labor-intensive process requires exceptional skill and patience—each piece is individually crafted and unique. The "Tangent Swirl" pattern showcases the technique's potential for creating flowing, organic forms that appear almost liquid in their movement.

Versatile Functionality

While designed as a bar cabinet, this versatile piece functions beautifully as:

-A statement bar or liquor cabinet
-Media console or credenza
-Elegant sideboard for dining room storage
-Entryway or hallway accent piece
-Living room storage with artistic impact

The interior provides ample storage with shelving ideal for bottles, glassware, serving pieces, or media components.

Provenance

Originally ordered from McGuire, San Francisco Design center, in November 2009 and delivered in 2020 via Mark Newman Design, a respected San Francisco-based interior design firm known for sourcing exceptional furnishings for discerning clients.

Dimensions

Approximate measurements:

Width: 60"
Depth: 20"
Height: 36"

Materials

Hand-hammered copper repoussé front panel
Black lacquer frame and top
Interior shelving

Condition Notes
This cabinet is in excellent condition with only minor signs of gentle use appropriate to its age. There are a couple of small dings in the black lacquer frame on the left side that could be easily touched up by a professional if desired (see photos). The copper repoussé metalwork is in pristine condition, maintaining its dimensional detail and rich patina throughout. All functional elements operate smoothly. This piece has been carefully maintained and is ready for immediate use.

Style & Placement

Perfect for:

Contemporary interiors seeking artistic statement pieces
Asian-inspired or Chinoiserie design schemes
Art Deco or Hollywood Regency spaces
Eclectic interiors mixing traditional and modern elements
Luxury dining rooms, living rooms, or home bars
Collectors of Robert Kuo or contemporary Asian design

Why This Piece is Special


Museum-Quality Craftsmanship: Hand-crafted using techniques dating back centuries

Versatile Elegance: Functions as bar cabinet, media console, or sideboard

Timeless Design: The swirling pattern and copper/black color palette transcends trends

Documented Provenance: Original purchase invoice from respected SF design firm

Limited Availability: Each Robert Kuo piece is individually crafted; no two are identical

No visible Makers Mark on the piece but original invoice available for provenance.

Robert Kuo's work has proven to be an excellent investment, with strong appreciation in the secondary market. His pieces are avidly collected by design enthusiasts worldwide and continue to be featured in luxury interiors and prestigious collections. See less