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Cabanel Basse-Boule Coffee Table Macassar Shagreen After Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann

About the Item

Looking for a coffee table with a story? Hold my latte-- This handsome fella came from a sprawling estate nestled in the rolling vineyards of Ojai, California—a dreamy French-inspired oasis dripping with antique Art Deco treasures. Crafted from sumptuous Macassar ebony, this table boasts a top that looks like it’s been kissed by nature’s own brushstrokes—its grain is so vivid it could rival a Van Gogh. Down the middle? A thick banding of shagreen, bisecting the top like the most elegant exclamation point. But the details don’t stop there. Holding court between the table’s top and bottom levels are large, grooved, ebonized balls—playful yet sophisticated, like a tuxedo with a twist. Even the base of this piece has been hand-planed to perfection, a testament to the masterful craftsmanship of whoever first brought this beauty into existence. Now, here’s where it gets juicy: we couldn’t stop thinking about who might have designed this stunner. The estate’s treasures had all the hallmarks of a highbrow Art Deco lineage, so we put on our design detective hats. After some sleuthing—and a little refinishing magic to reveal the table’s true glory—we confirmed our suspicions: this piece is after none other than Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, the OG of Art Deco luxury. Now, let’s talk Ruhlmann. Born in 1879 in Paris, this legendary French designer was a titan of the Art Deco movement. Known for his uncompromising attention to detail, Ruhlmann elevated furniture design into high art. His work graced the homes of Europe’s elite, characterized by exotic woods, clean lines, and unparalleled elegance. Often described as “the furniture maker to kings,” Ruhlmann’s designs were not just furniture; they were declarations of status, beauty, and craftsmanship. While this piece is unsigned (a rarity but not unheard of), it carries the unmistakable hallmarks of Ruhlmann’s touch—luxurious materials, timeless form, and a whisper of grandeur. If it were signed? You’d be looking at a piece valued in the stratosphere of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Instead, we’re offering it to you for a fraction of that—a true treasure for the savvy collector who appreciates the finer things and a side of mystique with their morning coffee. Oh, and for the icing on this cake of provenance? We’ve got photos and documentation tying this piece to the Ojai estate, alongside other fabulous finds from its French Art Deco trove. It’s got history, charm, and just enough intrigue to make for some enviable cocktail party chatter. Ready to claim this slice of Art Deco heaven? This is more than a coffee table—it’s a conversation starter, a legacy, and a testament to the golden age of design. Documented on page 282 of "Ruhlmann Master of Art Deco". Harry N Abrams; 1st Ed edition (April 1, 1999). Please message us for a shipping quote, we ship worldwide.
  • Attributed to:
    Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann (Designer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 18.5 in (46.99 cm)Width: 65 in (165.1 cm)Depth: 25 in (63.5 cm)
  • Style:
    Art Deco (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    C. 1920's
  • Condition:
    Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use. This coffee table has been refinished.
  • Seller Location:
    Culver City, CA
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1139236423542

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