Magnificent “Chinois” writing desk with a pair of engraved Chinese vignettes on top in patinated bronze and pewter with hand-applied enamels in blue, green, and orange with gold and copper leaf by Philip & Kelvin LaVerne, American 1960's (signed “Philip Kelvin LaVerne” on top). The background of the top is engraved with the “Kuan” motif of interlocking circles, which is meant to be evocative of the past. The pedestal base is lacquered bronze. This table was originally designed as a writing desk but it can also be used as a center table or narrow dining table.
Reference:
ALCHEMY: THE ART OF PHILIP AND KELVIN LAVERNE written by Evan Lobel with Kelvin LaVerne, published by Pointed Leaf Press in 2024, The Chinese vignettes on top come from the “Chinois” series by the LaVernes. A cabinet from this series is shown on page 77 in the section titled Historical Civilization Series. It is shown in the original advertisement from the 1980’s which states, “Hand sculptured in bronze and pewter, a cabinet inspired by French and Oriental love of nature. Whimsical scenes of birds, fishermen and flowers, enhanced by enamels. Buried in earth to achieve patinas of subtle beauty. A masterpiece of detail and simplicity - Signed - Philip and Kelvin LaVerne.”
W: 72.5 inches
D: 36.5 inches
H: 29.5 inches
Condition: Excellent
$65,000
ref: table36
