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.
Tripod Candelabra G023 handmade cast in brass by David Marshall
Located in Benahavis, AN
The Tripod Candelabra 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 in...
Brass
Mid-20th Century Israeli Brutalist Iron Candlesticks by David Palombo
Located in New York, NY
Hand forged, iron Shabbat candlesticks in the style known as "Brutalism," David Palombo, Jerusalem, Israel, circa 1955. David Palombo (1920-1966) was a sculptor and painter born ...
Iron
Set of Sculptural Candelabras G034 & G033 brass and aluminium by David Marshall
Located in Benahavis, AN
This stricking set of two sculptural candelabras - models G034 and G033 - was designed by the renowned artist and designer David Marshall. Each piece is handcrafted using a unique c...
Aluminum, Brass
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
Eastern European Ceramic Oval Vase, Textured Glaze with Green Motif, 1970s
Located in Alap, HU
Vintage Narrow-Mouth Ceramic Vase with Grass Green Abstract Motifs A vintage ceramic oval vase featuring a narrow-mouth form and a textured brown glaze accented with a grass-green a...
Ceramic
Cast Bronze 'Megalodon' Sculpture by J. Dale M'Hall
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Cast bronze 'Megalodon' 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
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
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
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
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
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
E002 Rectangular Tray Gold and aluminium coloured, Solid cast Brass & Aluminium
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Tray 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. Certi...
Aluminum, Brass
Shallow Bowl A024 and round ring place mat C052 in brass & Aluminium
Located in Benahavis, AN
The shallow small 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 worksh...
Aluminum, Brass
Ethnic Tray A074 Decorative Center Piece solid Brass and aluminium
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative tray 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 rec...
Aluminum, Brass
G067 Candelabra Sinuoso, Gold and Silver coloured Brass and Aluminium Handmade
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Candelabra 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....
Metal, Aluminum, Brass
Brutalist Plaster Animal Sculptures, Italy, Set of 3
Located in North Miami, FL
In the Cubist style, these whimsical plaster animal sculptures of a Giraffe, Elephant and Rhinoceros, are perfect elements for a shelf or console table. Pronounced textured finish in the style of Giacometti works. Note: sold as a grouping Only. Dimensions of Giraffe: 19.5 inches tall, 15 inches deep...
Plaster, Wood
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
Vintage Original Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This captivating studio pottery vase is a masterclass in organic form and textural contrast, perfectly capturing the experimental spirit of mid-century ceramic art. Hand-crafted with...
Pottery
$389 / item
Pyramid Candelabra II
Located in Benahavis, AN
The Candelabra was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast aluminium and sand cast brass. Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and workshop in Spain from recycle...
Aluminum, Brass
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
Large Solid Cast Aluminum Medusa Bowl A077 Cuenco Medusa Grande Handmade
Located in Benahavis, AN
The decorative Large Medusa Bowl was created by David Marshall, it is made of sand cast aluminum. Handmade, mounted and finished in our foundry and worksh...
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
Theo Niermeijer abstract modern plant sculpture 1970
Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant
This striking iron sculpture, designed by Theo Niermeijer (1940–2005) in Amsterdam in 1970, is a powerful example of his distinctive artistic vision. Large and heavy, the piece is cr...
Iron
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
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
1973 "Romolo Gling" Abstract Sculpture in Metal
Located in Milano, IT
1973 "Romolo Gling" abstract sculpture in metal.
Metal
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
$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
Sculptural Aluminium Leaf Centerpiece bowl by David Marshall with Gilded Stem
Located in Benahavis, AN
Designed by David Marshall, this sculptural aluminum centerpiece takes inspiration from the organic form of a leaf, a recurring theme in the artist’s work. The piece stands out for i...
Aluminum, Brass
Geometric Wooden Sculpture by Luciano Bertolotto, Italy 1995
Located in Antwerpen, BE
This wooden art sculpture by Luciano Bertolotto shows his talent for turning raw wood into bold, expressive forms. The tall shape rises with sharp lines and carved details that creat...
Wood
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
Vintage Asian Cast Character Sliding Box
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Add a touch of Eastern philosophy and artisanal charm to your desk or vanity with this captivating vintage figural trinket box. The piece features a heavy, cast metal sculpture of a ...
Bronze
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 Abstract Studio Pottery Vase
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This intensely sculptural piece of vintage studio pottery is a powerful embodiment of the Brutalist aesthetic, emphasizing raw texture and primal form. The structure consists of mult...
Pottery, Stoneware
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 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 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 Carved Stone Rams Head
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Earthy and powerful, this vintage boho carved stone ram’s head sculpture is a striking study in organic form and primal symbolism. Hand-sculpted from speckled sandstone, the stylized...
Sandstone
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
$1,701Sale Price|20% Off
Jean Pierre Helle, Driftwood Sculpture, circa 1970
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Jean Pierre Helle, (1944-2015), driftwood sculpture, circa 1970. Coming from the artist studio.
Driftwood
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
"Horselaugh" by Debbie Korbel
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
$1,465
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
$1,063Sale 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