Art Deco Bed by Jules Leleu

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A rare, superb bed designed and realized by Jules Leleu in 1923, and known in only two specimens. Mahogany and … Read more A rare, superb bed designed and realized by Jules Leleu in 1923, and known in only two specimens. Mahogany and amboyna burl veneer, inlaid floral marquetry, carved wood feet. Realized by Leleu for the Chenard family, at that time important car manufacturers in France. This elegant bed exemplifies Jules Leleu’s mastery of Art Deco furniture design in the mid-1920s, a period when his atelier was at the forefront of refined French decorative arts. The bed’s form is dominated by a gracefully curved headboard and footboard, their sweeping arcs enclosing the sleeping area with sculptural presence. The use of amboyna burl veneer—a richly figured exotic wood highly prized in luxury Art Deco interiors— lends a luminous depth to the surfaces. At the center of both head and footboard, floral marquetry introduces a delicate decorative accent: roses stylized in a manner that recalls both naturalistic ornament and the streamlined motifs of modernity. The whole rests on small, carved feet, balancing solidity with elegance. This bed not only represents Leleu’s sensitivity to material and form but also reflects the ideals of French Art Deco: luxury, craftsmanship, and modernity. Designed in 1923, it was exhibited at Pavillon de Marsan in 1923 and in the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes of 1925 in Paris, the event that gave the Art Deco movement its name. Ref. Viviane Jutheay, Jules et André Leleu, Edition Vecteurs, 1989, published as double page on pp 24 and 25. Prov. "Modernism" Gallery, New York; Private Collection, New York; Private Collection France. Jules Leleu (1883–1961) was one of the most influential French furniture designers of the Art Deco period. Born in Boulogne-sur-Mer, he trained in the family’s decoration and painting business before establishing Maison Leleu in Paris. He exhibited regularly at the Salon d’Automne and the Salon des Artistes Décorateurs and won top honors at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs—the fair that gave “Art Deco” its name. from the mid-1920s through the 1950s, Leleu supplied complete interiors for elite private clients and major public commissions. His atelier furnished embassies and ministries, luxury hotels, and legendary ocean liners (including Île-de-France and Normandie). Alongside Ruhlmann, Follot, and Sue-et-Mare, Leleu defined the French Art Deco ideal: calm, impeccably proportioned luxury rather than ostentatious display. His furniture is renowned for superb materials (exotic veneers, parchment, shagreen), flawless construction, and a restrained, architectural line that feels modern yet timeless. Because Maison Leleu delivered complete décors, his pieces are deeply considered in use—comfortable, durable, and elegant—making them particularly desirable to collectors and interior designers today. 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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