Wine Holder by André Verroken for Hof van Cleve, Belgium, 2010s

Wine holder exclusively designed by André Verroken for Peter Goossens, the previous owner of the esteemed three-star restaurant Hof van Cleve. Their first encounter occurred in the early 90s when Verroken visited Hof van Cleve alongside cabinetmaker Emiel Veranneman. Notably, Verroken's gallery lies a mere 10 kilometers from the restaurant. As part of Goossens' personal collection, this item epitomizes the marriage of fine dining and artistic expression. When furnishing their business, they chose almost exclusively Belgian design. The wine rack reflects Verroken's distinctive focus on composition, color, choice of material, and materiality. Its strict geometric design result in a harmonious interplay and evokes a sense of architectural grandeur and visual intrigue. This captivating artwork pays homage to the pursuit of perfection exemplified by Hof van Cleve.

André Verroken, a Belgian artist born in 1939, stands as a stalwart in the world of furniture design. With a career spanning over five decades, Verroken's contributions have been nothing short of revolutionary. Beginning in 1968, he established himself as a leading figure in Flanders' burgeoning furniture scene, influenced by geometric precision and architectural principles. Throughout his career, Verroken remained steadfast in his commitment to artistic principles, continually pushing the boundaries of form and function. From his early collaborations with renowned designers such as Martin Visser to his groundbreaking modular creations, Verroken's work reflects a deep-seated passion for balanced, pure, and clear aesthetics. Verroken's impact extends far beyond the realm of furniture design. His drawings, characterized by their constructivist and monumental nature, offer insight into his artistic process and creative vision. Recognised for his contributions, Verroken received accolades such as the Henry Van de Velde Prize for Best Product in 1994, cementing his status as a trailblazer in the world of design.