Jean and Sébastien Touret Brutalist Oak Bench, France 1970s

The term brutalism — which derives from the French word brut, meaning “raw” — was originally coined to describe an architectural style that emerged in the 1950s featuring monumental buildings, usually made of unornamented concrete, whose design was meant to project an air of strength and solidity. Similarly, in furniture design Brutalism inspired designers to create models with the same look of strength and style.

This rare Jean & Sébastien Touret oak bench is a beautiful example of this design movement, with a clear emphasis on the material’s natural qualities. This bench was created for a religious community of Loir et Cher -a department in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France - from oak of the property.

The duo’s design has a strong architectural approach, and while it is very sturdy on first sight, the outstanding execution of the legs and the natural appeal of oak make this bench the embodiment of creative, elegant design. Much like in architecture, brutalist furniture has organic, unpolished shapes. The seat and back planks of this bench exemplify this characteristic, with uneven edges, letting the natural qualities of the oak shine. The use of the sizeable pieces of oak wood with a beautiful grain, and the visible joints and bolts give this bench a natural, elemental feeling. The body was created employing the “bois arraché technique”, a finishing method by which lacquer is rubbed onto wood.

It might go unnoticed, but nowadays, brutalist furniture is part of any modern interior design project. In the same fashion, glimpses of brutalist interior design are found in top interior design projects. Think about Kelly Wearstler‘s interior design projects, where both on residential and commercial interior design projects, the popular interior designer integrates brutalist furniture. Nevertheless, like Wearstler, most designers prefer brutalist furniture with organic shapes, just like this oak bench.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches on the wood and old woodworm marks.

Dimensions:
55.11 in W x 18.11 in D x 44.68 in H; Seat height 16.92 in
140 cm W x 46 cm D x 113.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm

Shipping:
This bench will be packed and shipped with the greatest care to make sure you will receive the work in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU.