Raphaël Raffel Sideboard in Green and Black Beka Lacquer and Gold Leaf, France

A buffet or Sideboard by Raphaël Raffel carries a particular kind of presence; poised, architectural, and quietly theatrical. Made to order most probably in 1963, this piece brings together lacquer, gilded detail and gold leaf in a composition that feels both decorative and disciplined.

Design
This long sideboard is executed in shaded green and black Beka lacquer, its broad front arranged with three doors and a slightly recessed central bar section. Rather than treating storage as a concealed function, Raphaël turns it into part of the visual rhythm. The darker projecting bar cabinet interrupts the horizontal line and creates a measured play of depth across the façade. At its centre, a vertical stylised panel in gold leaf introduces a sharper note, echoed by the circular pulls, gilded metal brackets and sabots.

Inside, the warmth of the wood shifts the mood entirely. Shelves, drawers and the fitted bar interior bring a sense of order and intimacy that contrasts with the cooler lacquered exterior. From the side, the profiled black lacquered legs give the piece lift and lightness, avoiding any heaviness across its generous width.

Raphaël, active in Paris and known for refined decorative interiors, often worked with lacquer, gleaming surfaces and controlled contrasts. Here, that language is used with restraint: dark framing, luminous accents, and a carefully balanced relation between display, storage and reception. This specific color of lacquer is specifically made by Beka for Raffel.

The sideboard is signed twice by Raphaël; one time in the right door and one time in the most left drawer.

Condition
The piece is professionally (partially) restored and shows marks of use consistent with age. Surface wear and light traces to the lacquer should be expected, yet the overall presentation remains very good and the composition reads cleanly.

Literature
This exact sideboard is featured in the book 'Guy Bloch-Champfort, "Raphaël décorateur", éditions de l'amateur, Paris, 2002' on page 146.