Mid 20th Century Art Deco Italian Sapele Wood Sideboard

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This distinctive and original Italian Art Deco sideboard is crafted from fine Sapele wood. The front section, slightly projecting from … Read more This distinctive and original Italian Art Deco sideboard is crafted from fine Sapele wood. The front section, slightly projecting from the main body of the cabinet, is characterized by an elegant curved profile that breaks with traditional linear design. To emphasize this refined feature, the cabinetmakers oriented the wood grain of the doors horizontally, intelligently enhancing the flowing, wave-like aesthetic of the façade. This thoughtful design choice also harmoniously influences the shape of the top surface. The spacious and functional interior, fitted with a shelf, is made of polished light pinewood, creating a pleasant and luminous contrast with the darker exterior. On the right side, the sideboard features four practical drawers, each fitted with its original lock. All handles are original, crafted in brass, with a concave circular form and a clean, understated design. The solid and substantial base is recessed within the perimeter of the cabinet and finished with refined black wooden trim, adding both visual balance and structural solidity. This sideboard was expertly crafted between 1930 and 1935 by skilled master cabinetmakers in the area of Lendinara, in the province of Rovigo, Italy—one of the most prestigious furniture-making districts in the Veneto region—and represents an excellent example of high-quality Art Deco craftsmanship. Sapele, a noble and highly prized hardwood of African origin, was used in the construction of this piece. Known for its warm reddish hue reminiscent of mahogany, Sapele comes from Equatorial Africa and is distinguished by its fine, tight grain, interlocked fibers, and natural luster. Strong yet flexible, dense and durable, this wood has traditionally been employed in luxury furniture, fine cabinetry, yacht interiors, and high-end musical instruments. The entire structure was built in solid Sapele and subsequently veneered with carefully selected sections of the same wood, chosen for their particularly rich and varied natural grain patterns. The final hand-polished finish enhances the depth of color and dramatic figuring of this exceptional exotic wood, giving the sideboard a uniquely elegant and sophisticated appearance. The artisans conceived this piece as a compact yet visually striking object, defined by clean, decisive lines and balanced proportions. The result is a sideboard with timeless elegance, where a sense of austerity and rigor is softened by refined detailing, and the purity of the design lends the piece a dynamic and dignified character. The sideboard has been hand-treated by our team of artisans using traditional restoration techniques and is presented in excellent overall condition. Only two minor and negligible stains are present on the side panels (visible in the photographs). Dimensions: Width: 130 cm (51.18 in) Depth: 52 cm (20.47 in) See less