A rare and exceptionally elegant pair of Jean-Michel Frank console tables, dating from circa 1940 and executed in Argentina by Comte.

The construction is remarkably restrained. Each table consists of an exceptionally slender wrought-iron frame supporting a shallow woven cane top. The four tapering legs reduce almost to a point as they meet the floor, giving the tables an extraordinary visual lightness despite their relatively generous width.

The contrast between the dark iron and warm woven cane is particularly characteristic of Frank's approach to materials. There is almost no unnecessary detail; the quality of the design comes instead from the proportions, the delicacy of the ironwork and the texture of the natural cane surface.

The tables were executed by Comte in Buenos Aires, the firm responsible for producing many of Jean-Michel Frank's designs in Argentina. They are original period examples and are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Comité Jean-Michel Frank.

The pair comes from the collection of a longstanding collector of Jean-Michel Frank's work, where they had remained for many years before we acquired them.

The model is well documented within Jean-Michel Frank's work. A closely related pair of almost identical proportions was sold by Sotheby's Paris in November 2024. Sotheby's documented that the wrought-iron frames had been re-patinated and the original tops replaced with new caning at a later stage. The pair was estimated at €80,000–€120,000 and sold for €168,000.

The present tables remain in the condition in which we acquired them and we have undertaken no restoration. The wrought-iron frames retain an aged painted surface, while the original woven cane tops remain in place but have been painted or stained at some point in their history.

We considered having the existing cane professionally restored or, alternatively, having the tops carefully recaned. However, as the original cane survives, we felt it was preferable not to make that decision on behalf of a future owner. Some collectors will favour retaining as much original material as possible, while others may prefer the cleaner appearance of newly woven cane. The Sotheby's pair provides a useful precedent for the latter approach. We would be very happy to discuss either option and, if required, arrange the work with an appropriate specialist.

The exceptionally shallow depth of just 26.5 cm makes the tables particularly practical as consoles. Their restrained proportions allow them to sit comfortably against a wall without projecting significantly into a room, while the delicacy of the frames gives them a strong architectural presence without appearing heavy.

A particularly refined pair of original Jean-Michel Frank console tables, combining strong provenance, documented authenticity and the beautifully understated use of materials for which his work is so highly regarded.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.