Description

Background Info and Provenance

(This description was written in 2011. This piece sold immediately in iNVISeDGE for $1500 in 2011.)

A custom-made sideboard made in Australia in the 1950’s. This is a wonderful piece of Australian history. The mix of timbers used in this cabinet means it’s certainly Australian and certainly 1950’s. There are about four different timber types in this piece. Queensland Maple and Coachwood are the obvious ones. Coachwood was used in Australian furniture predominantly in the 1950’s. By the very early 60’s it was no longer used. This means the piece is pre-1960’s. There are two other pieces of timber used. One piece in the side is a reddish colour (it’s not teak)- I don’t know what it is but I usually see it in Australian art deco furniture. There may even be camphor laurel used on the top as well (or it could just be an unusual cut of Coachwood).

There’s something about this piece that really draws me in. I think a lot of this has to do with its construction. The carcass is solid timber with no use of veneer. This honesty in construction is rarely seen in any furniture and means the piece should last forever and continue to tell stories for generations. The different use of timbers is also a drawcard for me- it’s a quirky 50’s thing that’s often seen in furniture of this era. The cabinet-makers back then basically used whatever timber they could get their hands on- this gives the piece true vintage character.

I also love the simplicity of the design. It’s the epitome of 1950’s styling but is still understated and has a simplicity that will allow it to be adapted into any interior. The high elevation off the floor is also something that draws me in as it helps create a tidy airy feel.

Timber sideboards with honest workmanship are almost impossible to find these days. Custom-made sideboards of today in solid timber command over $2000. Therefore a custom-made piece from the 50’s has to be worth more than that. The construction of this piece has proven itself for 60 years already and the design is just as timeless. I can’t see this piece losing any value in the future- it ticks every box as far as a furniture investment goes. Items like this increase in value over time (I’ve seen it many times over the years). There’s no better way to invest in your home and in our environment.