A beautifully made and highly distinctive English bench or low table, dating from the late 1950s. Constructed from a slender black iron frame with a substantial marble top and a finely detailed lower shelf of afromosia slats, the piece has a restrained architectural quality and an exceptional level of craftsmanship.

The marble is precisely set within the iron frame, while the lower rack introduces the warmth of richly coloured afromosia against the cool stone and dark metal. The combination is both elegant and unusually considered, giving the piece a strong architectural presence while retaining a sense of lightness.

The designer of this model remains unknown. We have bought and sold several examples over the past twenty years and have always had a particular fondness for the design; an example also forms part of our own private collection.

Particularly notable are the details of the lower shelf. Each afromosia slat is individually secured with brass screws and finished with brass eyelets. These small elements are indicative of the care invested in the design and manufacture, and are characteristic of the thoughtful detailing that first drew our attention to this model.

The proportions are exceptionally versatile. Its relatively narrow depth allows it to work particularly well in a hallway or at the end of a bed, while its scale and construction make it equally suited to use as a coffee table or bench. The restrained palette of marble, black iron and afromosia allows the piece to sit comfortably within both contemporary and period interiors.

The piece is in very good vintage condition. The marble top has a few minor nibbles to the edges, consistent with age and use. The iron frame has acquired a gentle patina, while the afromosia slats have been lightly cleaned and waxed and present beautifully.

An unusually thoughtful and beautifully executed example of late-1950s English furniture, distinguished by its unusual combination of materials, refined proportions and exceptional attention to detail.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

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

Local, national and international shipping available.

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