Crystal 'Lens' Model 1774 Cocktail Table by Max Ingrand for Fontana Arte, 1959
This original Max Ingrand for Fontana Arte Model #1774 'Lens' coffee table was designed around 1958, this example was originally sold on November 23, 1959 making this part of the initial production years and a perfect collectors example. We acquired this table directly from the family of the original owner in Italy, photo of original receipt can be seen in this listing.
Constructed with an enameled steel frame and brass leg inserts, topped with an internal concave mirrored crystal with a golden color/tone. This is a simply exquisite collectors piece and ideal for an art and design collector or investor or an interior designer working on a high-end luxury interior with a demanding client who wants only the best of the best.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER: In 1908, Maurice Max-Ingrand, later known simply as Max Ingrand, was born in the town of Bressuire in western France. He went on to study in Paris at the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts and École nationale supérieure des arts décoratifs with Jacques Grüber and Charles Lemaresquier. In 1931, Ingrand married Paulette Rouquié, with whom he pursued glass etching and began exhibiting his works. This led to several private stained-glass commissions for Ingrand, including Notre-Dame de Paris and other cathedrals throughout France. Ingrand's nascent career was interrupted by World War II when he was drafted for military service in 1939. From 1940 to 1945, Ingrand was held as a German prisoner. Upon his release, Ingrand returned to Paris, divorced his wife, and, in 1946, married Marie-Alberte Madre-Rey; the couple would later have two children together. Quickly reestablishing himself as a leader in the field of stained glass, Ingrand produced windows and other decorative installations for churches in France and internationally. At the same time, Ingrand sought to apply his glass research and insights to the field of modern design, starting with lighting fixtures. He was named artistic director for Italian design house Fontana Arte in 1954. Over the next 13 years, Ingrand would create various iconic lamps, chandeliers, sconces, vases, tables, and other interiors, which masterfully achieve a balance between ornateness and minimalism. In 1968, Ingrand was chosen as the president of the French national lighting association and he also founded Verre Lumière ('True Lighting'), which was an early maker of halogen lamps. Ingrand died unexpectedly of influenza in Paris in 1969 and was awarded the French Legion of Honor to recognize his important contributions in the fields of stained glass and modern design. Today Fontana Arte continues to offer products created by Ingrand and his original works are held in the collections of multiple notable museums while also regularly bringing high prices at auction.
MEASUREMENTS: 32.5"dia x 14.75"h
CONDITION: Good vintage condition. Crystal is in very good condition, glass top has light wear including minor scratches, enameled steel has moderate patina and brass has light patina. Patina can be cleaned off if desired however we left it to allow the buyer to decide. Excellent collectors example. Ready for immediate use.
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