The design of brutalist furniture encompasses that which is crafted, hewn and worked by hand — an aesthetic rebuke (or, at least, a counterpoint) to furniture that is created using 21st-century materials and technology. Lately, the word “brutalist” has been adopted by the realms of furniture design and the decorative arts to refer to chairs, cabinets, tables and accessory pieces such as mirror frames and lighting that are made of rougher, deeply textured metals and other materials that are the visual and palpable antithesis of the sleek, smooth and suave.
ORIGINS OF BRUTALIST FURNITURE DESIGN
CHARACTERISTICS OF BRUTALIST FURNITURE DESIGN
BRUTALIST FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
VINTAGE BRUTALIST FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
The term brutalism — which derives from the French word brut, meaning “raw” — was coined by architecture critic Reyner Banham to describe an architectural style that emerged in the 1950s featuring monumental buildings, usually made of unornamented concrete, whose design was meant to project an air of strength and solidity.
Le Corbusier essentially created the brutalist style; its best-known iterations in the United States are the Whitney Museum of American Art, which was designed by Marcel Breuer, and Paul Rudolph's Yale Art and Architecture Building. The severe style might have been the most criticized architectural movement of the 20th century, even if it was an honest attempt to celebrate the beauty of raw material. But while the brutalist government buildings in Washington, D.C., seemingly bask in their un-beauty, brutalist interior design and decor is much more lyrical, at times taking on a whimsical, romantic quality that its exterior counterparts lack.
Paul Evans is Exhibit A for brutalist furniture design. His Sculpture Front cabinets laced with high-relief patinated steel mounts have become collector's items nonpareil, while the chairs, coffee table and dining table in his later Cityscape series and Sculpted Bronze series for Directional Furniture are perhaps the most expressive, attention-grabbing pieces in American modern design. Other exemplary brutalist designers are Silas Seandel, the idiosyncratic New York furniture designer and sculptor whose works in metal — in particular his tables — have a kind of brawny lyricism, and Curtis Jere, a nom-de-trade for the California team of Curtis Freiler and Jerry Fels, the bold makers of expressive scorched and sheared copper and brass mirror frames and wall-mounted sculptures.
Brutalist furniture and sculptures remain popular with interior designers and can lend unique, eccentric, human notes to an art and design collection in any home.
Find authentic vintage brutalist chairs, coffee tables, decorative objects and other furniture on 1stDibs.
Brutalist Elm Totem Sculpture by Sebastien Touret, France
Located in London, GB
Large Brutalist Elm Totem Sculpture by Sebastien Touret, France Dimensions : H 203 x 32 x 43 cm The term brutalism — which derives from the French w...
Elm
G073 Original Candelholder by David Marshall Handrafted Cast brass / aluminium
Located in Benahavis, AN
A striking and sculptural piece , The Tronco G073 Candleholder is an original design by renowned artist and designer David Marshall. Crafted entirely by hand in our workshop, piece ...
Aluminum, Brass
Medium Oval Bowl A027
Located in Benahavis, AN
The Medium Oval Bowl was created by David Marshall, from sand cast aluminium. We use recycled materials all our pieces are handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop...
Aluminum, Brass
Mid-20th Century Israeli Shabbat Candle Holder by David Palombo
Located in New York, NY
Shabbat candle holder crafted in brutalist style by David Palombo. Made for two candles, this uniquely shaped holder appears to be almost anthrop...
Iron
Ellen Brenner Bronze Sculptural Platter w/ Bronze Orchid Adornments (Signed)
By Ellen Brenner-Sorensen
Located in North Miami, FL
An incredibly unique sculptural platter by artist, Ellen Brenner (signed to verso). The verdigris patina on the bronze from 1970's is lovely, adorn...
Bronze
Mid-20th Century Brutalist Metal Sculpture Mask by Soud’art, 78cm
Located in Linkebeek, BE
Sculpture metal "Soud’art" Mask Wear consistent with age and use Art - Graphic sculpture - Brutalist Measures : 15cmx18cm H:78cm
Metal
Brutalist brass pair of candle holders, France 1970s
Located in Firenze, IT
A pair of great brutalist candle holders France, circa 1970 Solid brass H 21 cm x 13 cm x 40 cm Conditions: excellent, no defects
Brass
DO16 Square Clock, Gold and aluminium coloured, Solid cast Brass & Aluminium
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Clock was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast brass. Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain from recycled materials. Cert...
Aluminum, Brass
Candelabra Cobra G022 Cast Brass Gold coloured made in Spain by David Marshall
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Candelabre was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast brass. Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain from recycled materials. ...
Brass
Vintage Glazed Ceramic Cross Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This striking vintage sculptural vase is a masterful example of Brutalist-inspired ceramic art, featuring a bold, high-gloss black glaze that reflects light with a metallic depth. Th...
Ceramic
Vintage Glazed Ceramic Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This striking vintage sculptural vase is a masterful example of Brutalist-inspired ceramic art, featuring a bold, high-gloss black glaze that reflects light with a metallic depth. Th...
Ceramic
Elisabeth Vandeweghe (1946) 'Vase' for Perignem
Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest
Gorgeous brutalist glazed ceramic vase by Elizabeth Vandeweghe for Perignem with inlaid enamelled pieces. Timeless and decorative piece. Dimensions: Height: 35cm Diameter: 25cm Re...
Stone
Brutalist Abstract Bowl Cast Alumium Reference A061
Located in Benahavis, AN
The abstract bowl was created by David Marshall, from sand cast aluminium. We use recycled materials all our pieces are handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain. It is certified authentic by the Artist David Marshall. He is insipired by nature and the landscaps making useful art with cast brass and alumium materials. We also make bespoke designs for clients, like signage for condominums, private homes, Hotels & Restaurants, awards for Charity...
Aluminum
Classic Menorah G018 9arms Solid Cast Brass and Aluminum Handmade in Spain
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Menorah was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast aluminum and sand cast brass. Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain from ...
Aluminum, Brass
Vintage Monumental Abstract Sculpture
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
his monumental abstract floor sculpture is a tour de force of organic form and Brutalist texture. Standing over six feet tall, its rhythmic, tiered conical shape evokes a primitive, ...
Leather, Bentwood
Vintage Original 2 Handle Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This striking original studio pottery vase is a masterclass in organic form and textural contrast. Crafted from heavy stoneware, the vessel features an expressive, mottled glaze in h...
Pottery, Stoneware
Vintage Aboriginal Studio Pottery Dot Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This striking studio pottery vase is a masterclass in organic form and textural exploration, drawing inspiration from traditional Aboriginal dot art and Mid-Century Modern Brutalism....
Pottery
Brutalist Menorah Candelabra Cast Aluminium & Brass David Marshall Handmade
Located in Benahavis, AN
The candelabra was created by David Marshall, from sand cast aluminium and brass. We use recycled materials all our pieces are handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain. It is certified authentic by the Artist David Marshall with his signature. He is insipired by nature and the landscaps making useful art with cast brass and alumium materials. We also make bespoke designs for clients, like signage for condominums,private homes, Hotels & Restaurants , awards for Charity...
Brass, Aluminum
$1,417
Swiss clock vanity
Located in Grenoble, FR
Vanity made of lead and old clockwork elements in homage to Dali and his melted clock
Brass, Lead
Puzzle Candelabra G047 solid cast brass and alumium designed by David Marshall
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Candelabra was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast brass and aluminium. Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain from recycl...
Aluminum, Brass
Brutalist Medium Mesh Fruit Bowl Solid Cast Aluminium Reference A050 Handmade
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Medium Mesh Fruit Bowl was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast aluminum . Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain from recy...
Aluminum
Plait Picture Frame N027 handmade in cast brass
Located in Benahavis, AN
The Plait Picture Frame was created by David Marshall, from sand cast brass. We use recycled materials all our pieces are handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop ...
Brass
1973 "Romolo Gling" Abstract Sculpture in Metal
Located in Milano, IT
1973 "Romolo Gling" abstract sculpture in metal.
Metal
Menorah G046 two Coloured Gold Silver Handmade in Spain Tabletop Candlestick
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Menorah was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast aluminum and sand cast brass. We can engrave this piece with your Initials or Logo, makes a beautiful W...
Aluminum, Brass
Vintage Carved Man Sphere
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This evocative hand-carved wood sculpture presents a compelling interpretation of the traditional "crouching yogi" or "thinking man" figure, infused with a raw, Brutalist aesthetic. ...
Metal
Celtic Card Tray Gold Silver Desk Tray E005 Handmade in Spain
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Celtic Card Tray was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast aluminum and sand cast brass.Makes a beautiful Wedding or Company Gift. Handmade, mounted and f...
Aluminum, Brass
Brutalist Maze Bowl Cast Aluminum & Brass Reference A080 by David Marshall
Located in Benahavis, AN
The abstract bowl was created by David Marshall, from sand cast aluminium. We use recycled materials all our pieces are handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain. It is certified authentic by the Artist David Marshall. He is insipired by nature and the landscaps making useful art with cast brass and alumium materials. We also make bespoke designs for clients, like signage for condominums, private homes, Hotels & Restaurants, awards for Charity...
Aluminum, Brass
Paar brutalistische Messing-Kerzenleuchter
Located in Aachen, DE
Ein seltenes Paar brutalistischer 4-flammiger Kerzenleuchter, floral gestaltet. Das Design imitiert stilistisch Iris-Blumen oder Blätter. Hier wurden typische Elemente des Jugendst...
Brass
$450 / set
Vintage Original Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This striking vintage studio pottery vase is a compelling example of 1970s hand-thrown ceramic art. Featuring a bold, chalice-like silhouette, the piece is defined by its deep, metal...
Pottery
Brutalist Celtic Bowl Solid Cast Aluminium and Brass A070 by David Marshall
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Celtic Bowl was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast aluminum and sand cast brass. Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain from recycled materials. Certified authentic by the Artist David Marshall with his signature. The Artist is inspired by nature and land scape making functional art and sculptures out of recycled materials. We work with arquitects, interior designers and private clients to create specific designs, signage, staircases etc. for Homes, Hotels, Restaurants. Awards for Charity...
Aluminum, Brass
Candelabra Sinuoso 4 Velas made of solid Brass and Aluminium Handmade
Located in Benahavis, AN
The " Candelabro Sinuoso " was created by David Marshall in 1997, Scottish Artist living in Spain, the candlestick is produced from sand cast aluminium and brass. All our pieces are...
Brass, Metal, Aluminum
Vintage Original Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Exude an air of organic sophistication with this striking vintage studio pottery vase. A masterful example of mid-century craft, this tall vessel features a compelling Brutalist infl...
Clay, Pottery, Stoneware
Brutalist Zen Bowl A071 in Cast Brass and Aluminium Designed by David Marshall
Located in Benahavis, AN
The Bowl was created by David Marshall, from sand cast aluminium and brass. We use recycled materials all our pieces are handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop ...
Aluminum, Brass
Vintage Boho Artisanal Pigmented Plaster Scagliola Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This striking artisanal vase is a masterclass in Postmodern organic design, showcasing the sophisticated scagliola technique to achieve its dramatic marbled appearance. Handcrafted f...
Plaster, Paint
Vintage Boho Abstract Original Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Make a bold artistic statement with this avant-garde vintage studio pottery vessel. Defined by its unique, biomorphic silhouette, this hand-built stoneware piece functions as both a ...
Pottery, Stoneware
Vintage Boho Original Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Celebrate the rugged beauty of mid-century American craftsmanship with this impressive vintage studio pottery pitcher. Hand-thrown from heavy stoneware, this vessel showcases a maste...
Pottery
imposant vase en grès brutalité vintage
Located in LYON, FR
Incroyable et imposant vase en grès scarifié décoré d'une flamme. Superbe état, travail d'artiste des années 1980/90 en excellent état.
Sandstone
Vintage Boho Original Studio Pottery Small Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Evoke the soulful aesthetic of Japanese Mingei pottery with this striking vintage studio stoneware vessel. Hand-thrown with subtle, organic irregularity, the piece features a lustrou...
Pottery
Vintage Boho Torch Cut Metal Bands Sculpture
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Presenting a captivating vintage Brutalist metal sculpture, an intriguing abstract piece that evokes the raw beauty of a blooming flower or an exploding star. Crafted from forged iro...
Metal
Vintage Boho Original Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A magnificent example of Brutalist studio pottery, this vintage vase is a sculptural masterpiece of form and texture. The artist has expertly crafted a towering, organic silhouette c...
Pottery, Stoneware
Vintage Boho Original Studio Pottery Blocks Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A commanding work of Brutalist-inspired studio pottery, this original hand-built vase is a powerful sculptural statement. Its most striking feature is the architectural base, adorned...
Clay, Pottery
Vintage Boho Original Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Discover the unique charm of this striking vintage studio pottery vase, a testament to handcrafted artistry. Its distinctive form features a faceted, geometric base grounding a slend...
Clay, Pottery
Vintage Boho Zig Zag Candlesticks - A Pair
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Add sculptural interest and earthy texture to your space with this striking pair of Vintage Boho Zig Zag Candlesticks. Crafted from plaster or stone composite, their architectural, s...
Concrete
Brutalist stippled abstract sculpture in Carrara marble by Anna Mizak
Located in London, England
Biomorphic abstract sculpture in stippled Carrara marble, on honed plinth. Anna Mizak was born in 1939 in Poland. She studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw and later at the R...
Carrara Marble
Cast Bronze 'Sand Flea' Sculpture by J. Dale M'Hall
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Cast bronze 'Sand Flea' sculpture by American sculptor J. Dale M'Hall. James began sculpting in the 1960's and has worked with a variety of different media throughout his career but bronze sculpting...
Bronze
Cast Bronze Armory Tower Statuette by J. Dale M'Hall
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Cast bronze sculpture by American sculptor J. Dale M'Hall. James began sculpting in the 1960's and has worked with a variety of different media throughout his career but bronze sculpting...
Bronze
1970's Mexican Brutalist Welded And Hammered Steel House Shaped Sculpture
Located in Mexico City, MX
A 1970's anonymous Mexican Brutalist hammered and welded steel sculpture in shape of a house. The geometric design of the composition has a perfect ...
Steel
"Horselaugh" by Debbie Korbel
Located in Los Angeles, CA
"Horselaugh" by Debbie Korbel Hand-Made Stainless Steel Sculpture Mounted on A Black Steel Post The Horse Is Welded To The Steel Stand, And Free-Standing Wire Tail One of A Kind...
Metal, Steel, Cut Steel
$1,028Sale Price|50% Off
Antique Glazed Terracotta Flower Column
Located in Montelabbate, PU
Beautiful artistic plant stand in glazed and painted terracotta, great skill and full craftsmanship. Unique grotesques theme with enclosed in frames moved volutes and foliage, Italy,...
Terracotta
Natural Stucco-Marble by Amandine Antunez
Located in PAU, FR
Stucco-Marble vase by the french artist Amandine Antunez. The Stucco-marble is an old skill of 300 years old. Made With plaster, natural glue and natural pigment.
Stucco
Price Upon Request
Harry Bouras Sculpture
By Harry Bouras
Located in Chicago, IL
Chicago art critic, Harry Bouras was the host of "Arts and Artists" for 25 years. Harry's pieces are in permanent collections in Chicago, New York, and Tokyo. Resin coated iron sculpture. Pictured with three other matching sculptures...
Iron