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André Sornay · 1902 - 2000

Convertible bookcase ddesk

c. 1938 · Tables / Desks / Consoles

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This transformable piece in solid mahogny and mahogany with brass nails consists of an articulated low bookcase structure. When closed, it presents a long linear cabinet with a sliding panel and open shelving compartments. Through an ingenious pivoting mechanism, the upper framework unfolds 90 degrees to create a large perpendicular desk top. The entire piece is outlined by Sornay's patented geometric brass nailing (cloutage), highlighting its architectural lines.

Unique piece.

In the years following World War I, the reorganization of housing made smaller living spaces a necessity and many designers developed modular furniture systems. These new constraints on space and construction stimulated Sornay’s ingeniousness. He started to design tailor-made or multifunctional furniture as early as 1925.

Specifications

Dimensions
H. 79 / 75 cm x L. 346 cm x P. 34 / 201 cm H. 31.1 / 29.5 in x L. 136.2 in x D. 13.4 / 79.1 in
Materials
Mahogany
André Sornay About the artist André Sornay Biography

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Certified documentation, restoration and provenance history.

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Other works by André Sornay

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Column cabinet in solid walnut. Its upper portion incorporates four open pigeon holes. The lower section is enclosed by a solid door in Macassar ebony. The entire structure rests on a solid walnut base. Unique piece. Ref. « signé sornay. » p.224. This piece has been created before the nails patent so before 1932. The pre-cloutage production featured strongly built pieces of furniture characterized by their simple lines, constructed in accordance with traditional cabinetmaking practice. At this period most production is 'on order'.

André Sornay

c. 1926 Cabinet with four pigeon holes

Walnut armchairs with geometric lines, notably characterized by solid wood sides with angular cuts. Their high and slightly inclined backrest fits dynamically into this imposing cubic structure. The deep seat, backrest, and armrest upholstery are covered in a textured light fabric. Ref. « signé sornay. » p.345. This piece has been created before the nails patent so before 1932. The pre-cloutage production featured strongly built pieces of furniture characterized by their simple lines, constructed in accordance with traditional cabinetmaking practice. At this period most production is 'on order'.

André Sornay

c. 1927 Pair of armchairs in walnut

Pair of pedestal ashtrays in solid walnut with hollowed-out faces. Its upper part accommodates a removable brass receptacle integrated into the center of a square top. This piece has been created before the nails patent so before 1932. The pre-cloutage production featured strongly built pieces of furniture characterized by their simple lines, constructed in accordance with traditional cabinetmaking practice. At this period most production is 'on order'.

André Sornay

c. 1930 Pair of ashtrays

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