A particularly handsome Pierre Jeanneret Pigeon Hole File Rack, dating from 1957 and produced in solid sisso, or Indian rosewood.

Designed as a practical piece of office furniture, the rack is a good example of Jeanneret's ability to combine straightforward utility with a strong architectural quality. The six-section construction is particularly pleasing, with four central square compartments flanked by taller compartments at either end. This variation in scale gives the rack a very pleasing rhythm and adds to the architectural quality of the design, while the solid timber frame gives the piece a sense of weight and permanence.

We particularly like the simplicity of the design. There is very little unnecessary decoration; the character comes from the proportions, construction and natural qualities of the timber. Originally intended for the storage of files and paperwork, the compartments are equally useful today for books, documents, photographs or objects.

The use of sisso is particularly attractive. Indian rosewood has a warmth and depth that develops beautifully with age, and the natural variation in the timber gives the otherwise restrained form considerable character. The shrinkage of the wood, the natural development of the patina, and the general dings, dents and marks picked up throughout its life all add to the character of the piece.

There is something especially appealing about pieces of Jeanneret's Chandigarh furniture that were designed for everyday institutional use. They were conceived as working furniture rather than as decorative objects, and it is precisely this combination of practicality, robust construction and architectural thinking that has allowed many of the designs to remain so relevant today.

This example has a particularly useful scale and relatively shallow depth, making it practical within an interior without requiring a large amount of floor space. The open compartments could work equally well for books, documents or as a more informal display for a collection of objects. It would sit comfortably in both contemporary and period settings.

The rack is from a government building in Chandigarh, India, and forms part of the extensive body of furniture Jeanneret designed for the city's public and institutional buildings.

We have specialised in Pierre Jeanneret furniture for nearly nineteen years and have extensive experience identifying, sourcing, restoring and selling his work. Given the number of later reproductions and incorrectly attributed pieces now on the market, we understand the importance of provenance, construction, materials and restoration when assessing Chandigarh furniture.

We are always happy to discuss these aspects in detail and answer any questions regarding the authenticity, provenance or restoration of our Jeanneret pieces.

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.