An original 1919 decorative-arts plate by Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, presenting his exhibition design for a cabinet in Macassar ebony with ivory marquetry at the Salon d’Automne in Paris. Its handwritten inscription identifies the subject as Projet de présentation d’un meuble en ébène Macassar à marqueterie d’ivoire.
Arranged as four finely balanced interior studies, the composition presents the cabinet within complete decorative schemes rather than as an isolated object. Dark architectural panels, framed artworks, pedestals and ornamental motifs reveal Ruhlmann’s approach as an ensemblier, conceiving furniture and its surrounding interior as one harmonious whole.
The work is a colour print on wove paper enriched with hand-applied gold-painted details. Its muted greens, browns and blacks, animated by restrained golden accents, create the luxurious refinement associated with the emergence of French Art Deco.
The plate appeared in the sumptuous art review Les Feuillets d’Art, published between 1919 and 1922. It documents Ruhlmann’s important participation in the 1919 Salon d’Automne, where his Macassar-ebony Meuble au char helped establish his reputation as one of France’s leading modern decorators.
Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann (1879–1933) became a defining figure of Art Deco, renowned for elegant proportions, precious woods, ivory marquetry and exceptional craftsmanship. Both a collectible original print and a significant record of an important furniture design, this refined 1919 plate would appeal to collectors of Ruhlmann, Art Deco and French decorative arts.
Furniture project
Furniture - Art Deco
Autumn Salon - Golden rehauts with stencil
Very good state
Sign up & benefit from discounts or exclusive offers.