Paul Michel Transforming Ash Coffee Table with Hidden Bar, France, 1970s

Description

A wonderfully inventive 1970s coffee table by French designer Paul Michel, concealing a complete mirrored cocktail bar within its centre.

At first glance it's the timber that makes the table. The top is formed from a series of angular panels in dark-stained ash, with the pronounced grain running in different directions across each section. The result is an almost abstract geometric composition, particularly striking when the table is closed.

The clever bit is hidden underneath.

The top slides apart in a wonderfully engineered movement to reveal a mirrored dry bar, complete with glass shelf and its original sculptural clear acrylic bottle holder. The contrast is fantastic. Dark, heavily figured ash on the outside gives way to mirror, glass and acrylic within.

French designer Paul Michel became particularly known for this type of transforming furniture. Working from Bressuire in western France, his furniture combined traditional cabinetmaking materials with the more glamorous materials of the period. Mirror, acrylic, glass and highly figured timbers appear repeatedly in his work.

This table captures that approach beautifully. It is substantial and architectural when closed, then unexpectedly theatrical when opened.

A nice, signed example of Paul Michel's transforming furniture, retaining its original mirrored interior and sculptural acrylic bottle holder. An increasingly collectible piece of 1970s French design.

Dimensions

Table Closed: Width: 125cm x Depth: 80cm x Height: 38 cm
Table Open: Width: 120cm x Depth: 95cm x Height: 38 cm.