Alfred Chambon

ALFRED CHAMBON (Ixelles, 1884-1973).
Cabinet abattant, 1938.
Amaranth, American walnut, French walnut, ivory lines and bronze appliques.
Signed and dated.
Measurements: 130.5 x 75 x 38 cm.

The cabinet in bidding is a clear example of the language of Alfred Chambon and, in general, of the luxury Brussels cabinetmaking of transition between late Art Nouveau and early Art Deco, developed between approximately 1915 and 1940. Chambon was an architect and designer, son of the decorator Alban Chambon, and his furniture is characterized by the combined use of hardwoods and metal applications, especially bronze and copper. This last aspect can be seen in the locks covered by metal scallops of the cabinet in bidding.

The front hinged door descends and becomes a large writing surface, supported by two side metal arms in brass or bronze. The space is organized by an asymmetrical but balanced composition of compartments: on the left, three overlapping pigeonholes for correspondence or documents. In the center, two vertical compartments of greater height. On the right, two niches of different dimensions.

The use of woods such as amaranth, American walnut and French walnut, used because Brussels developed an important tradition of furniture in mahogany and tropical woods from the international Belgian trade, stands out. The use of high quality exotic woods was a constant feature of prestigious Belgian furniture during the first decades of the 20th century.