Chess Set with Box attributed to Christophe Gevers for de Coene, Belgium, 1950s, Set of 34

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Description

This iconic schaakspel (chess set) was designed by the influential Belgian architect‑designer Christophe Gevers (1928–2007) in the 1950s and produced … Read more This iconic schaakspel (chess set) was designed by the influential Belgian architect‑designer Christophe Gevers (1928–2007) in the 1950s and produced by the renowned furniture manufacturer De Coene. The set is a masterclass in mid-century modernism, featuring abstract, geometric wooden pieces that simplify traditional chess forms. Typically crafted from high-quality woods like teak or rosewood, reflecting De Coene's reputation for exceptional craftsmanship. The innovative cardboard storage functions as a sliding sleeve or case, where the pieces can be tucked away when not in play; a hallmark of Gevers' functional, material-driven approach.

The pieces, turned from contrasting woods, reveal Gevers’ characteristic sensitivity to material and proportion: cones, cylinders, and subtly varied silhouettes distinguish rank and function with quiet precision. Their presence on the board is almost sculptural, transforming the game into a landscape of rhythm, balance, and abstraction. The wooden board itself complements the ensemble with its clean lines and warm tonal interplay, reinforcing the set’s modernist clarity.

Adding to its rarity and desirability, the chess set is accompanied by its original De Coene box; an evocative artifact that underscores the piece’s provenance and mid‑century heritage. The box bears the unmistakable De Coene branding, a reminder of the company’s long-standing reputation for craftsmanship and innovation in Belgian furniture and decorative arts.

A collector’s piece of exceptional quality that, at the time, was made as a gift for special clients. Gevers' collaboration with De Coene during the late 1950s marked a pivotal era for Belgian design, coinciding with his award-winning TBA Chair (1959). This chess set is now a highly sought-after collector's item for enthusiasts of vintage Belgian design. This chess set stands at the intersection of design, sculpture, and functional art. Its combination of minimalist elegance, historical significance, and preserved original packaging makes it a remarkable acquisition for enthusiasts of Belgian modernism and mid‑century design.

Dimensions box:
Height: 10 cm
Width: 40 cm
Depth: 39 cm

Dimensions board:
Height: 38,5 cm
Depth: 38,5 cm

Dimensions pieces:
Height: 3,5 cm - 8 cm This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
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