A rare pair of marble and painted iron side tables, made by Comte in Argentina during the 1940s and based on a design by Jean-Michel Frank.

Comte had worked closely with Jean-Michel Frank in Argentina and continued to produce furniture influenced by his designs following Frank's death in 1941. These tables belong to that later period. Although based closely on a Frank design, they should not be considered Jean-Michel Frank pieces, and we think it is important to make that distinction clear.

The slender painted iron bases follow a form used by Frank, with four beautifully curved legs drawn inward at the centre and joined by a small circular brace. Small iron rings hang from each corner beneath the top, an elegant decorative detail that provides a contrast to the otherwise extremely restrained construction.

Frank produced closely related tables using the same base design, although we have not found an example by him with a marble top. These tables were produced by Comte after Frank's death, retaining the familiar iron structure but combining it with original marble tops.

The two marble tops are particularly beautiful, with extensive natural veining in shades of cream, pink, grey and burgundy. Each has a moulded edge and, although cut from the same type of stone, the individual patterning gives each table its own character.

The painted iron bases have developed an attractive patina through age, with areas of wear and oxidation consistent with pieces dating from the 1940s. We have deliberately retained this surface rather than over-restoring the metalwork. The original marble tops similarly show minor signs of age and use.

The tables came from a private collection in London. The previous owner purchased them in Argentina, where they were produced by Comte.

For us, these are particularly interesting examples of the continuation of Jean-Michel Frank's influence in Argentina after his death. They retain the lightness and elegance of the original Frank base design while clearly belonging to Comte's own later production.

The tables are offered as a pair.

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.