Jean Touret & Les Artisans de Marolles sideboard in solid Oak and wrought Iron, France 1950s
Rare sideboard in solid Oak and wrought Iron by Jean Touret & Les Artisans de Marolles, France 1950s. Clean and modest lines made from raw and honest materials such as solid French Oak and wrought iron, showcasing the philosophy of Jean Touret. Beautiful authentic details can be see such as the traditional finger joint connections between the solid Oak panels, the hammered structured surface of the wrought iron nails, handles and base. The combination of these materials and exposed craftsmanship results into this powerful and heart resonating piece, you feel the love and honesty which was put in the work. Touret moved to Marolles shortly after the war and was fascinated by the tradition of the village who brought forward great traditional craftsmen, preserved knowledge and ability of local weavers, blacksmiths, and carpenters. This captured the interest of the impassioned artist and designer. Encouraged by a great disgust of the rise of mass-produced and standardized furniture manufactured in industrialized material, he decided to form an alliance with the local craftsmen in order to preserve this guild and prevent the talent and knowledge from being lost. Under the artistic direction, the eye and the poetic vision of Touret the artisans of Marolles produced great pieces of craftsmanship. This didn't kept unnoticed, it took the attention of connoisseurs in design and art and their pieces quickly became successful which made it necessary to expand the group. Great collectible piece in an excellent condition with a great authentic patina.