André Sornay Cabinet, Circa 1960, France

DESCRIPTION: André Sornay Cabinet, Circa 1960, France. This piece is a sapele wood and Isorel sideboard designed by the renowned French modernist André Sornay around 1960 . André Sornay (1902–2000), a Lyon-based designer is celebrated for his clean lines and innovative assembly techniques. Built with a solid sapele wood frame and lacquered Isorel (hardboard) panels, finished in a light grey lacquer. The structure consists of two stacked elements with sliding doors, a signature element of Sornay’s work during the 1950s and 60s. This sideboard is considered a rare model that exemplifies the transition of mid-century design toward more functional, modular forms.

CONDITION: Good condition. Wear consistent with age and use.

DIMENSIONS: Height: 207cm (81.5in) Width: 220cm (87in) Depth: 46cm (18in)

REFERENCE: BI_0013

ABOUT THE DESIGNER: French designer, decorator and furniture maker, Andre Sornay, was born and raised in Lyons, France. He studied at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts there and conducted his career there as well – to the extent that the French Art Deco movement in his hometown was known as “Le Style Sornay”. Sornay was born into a furniture-making family and when his father died in 1919, he was appointed head of the family’s furniture business. From 1920 he abandoned the historicist and ancient styles they produced in favor of his own simple, innovative and purist lines. Sornay was good friends with other avant-garde designers including Fancis Jourdain and Pierre Chareau and was inspired by their work. In 1923 he showed an ensemble in white sycamore at the 1923 Salon d’Automne.

ABOUT THE STYLE: French Mid-Century Modern furniture is defined by a refined elegance that blends simple, functional lines and organic forms with both innovative and traditional materials. These creations often represent a subtle balance between industrial production and high-quality craftsmanship.