Maison De Coene Frères, ‘Brutalist’ style bar and secretary unit, black oak, ca 1970

This is a sculptural piece of bar and secretary furniture, traditionally described as a production of the publishing house De Coene Frères in Courtrai, Belgium, circa 1970.
It is crafted with great care, mainly in solid oak and veneer, blackened and satin varnished.
The unit has a flap and two doors.
The mosaic of solid oak elements used to decorate the doors is irresistibly reminiscent of cubism, ethnic and primitive art.
art.
Perhaps this explains the current craze for these so-called ‘Brutalist-style' creations.
What's more, for its time, the construction of this furniture was impeccable and very solid, as can be seen from the condition of this piece after sixty years of use.
This piece of furniture is in magnificent original condition, both functionally and aesthetically.
There are minimal signs of wear.
The interior is finished in contrasting light oak.
This is a spectacular and practical piece of furniture whose design has become timeless.
I also offer the matching enfilade for sale.