André Groult Adjustable Shagreen Stool

André Groult (1884-1967)

period: 1930s
origin: France
dimensions: h43-53 x w37 x d37 cm
material: exotic wood veneer seating, base covered with white shagreen, embellished with inlaid fillets

French interior decorator and designer André Groult is one of the most influential figures of the Art Deco style. His work is appreciated for its unique fusion of traditional and modernist elements with strong organic features. Together with a handful of other designers, he led the Progressive Traditionalist Movement, described by author Guillaume Janneau as “a singular mixture of daring curiosity and selected culture.” Groult especially did not shy away from making bold choices, using vibrant patterns and rich materials, and leaving an impressive mark on the development of Art Deco.

This stunning Stool is a variant of a model dating from 1937, which was presented during the International Exhibition of Arts and Techniques of that year as part of a vanity set entitled Lady's Bedroom. Its base is covered with the untanned skin of a stingray: exquisite material known as shagreen, and used by craftsmen since the 18th century for the most exclusive embellishments.